Sex-for-prayers cult exposed

A bizarre cult in Pumula South, Bulawayo, has been exposed for using sex rituals disguised as prayer, luring desperate women with promises of love, marriage and faithfulness.

The scandal came to light after a viral video three weeks ago showed women's underwear hanging from bushes near a shrine, sparking outrage on social media.

Investigations revealed that self-styled prophets convinced women that their "healing" required sexual intercourse. Victims said the rituals involved stripping naked, leaving underwear behind as "sacrifices," and being told their wombs carried "evil spirits."

One 39-year-old woman admitted she underwent the ritual last year and claimed it "worked" because her partner later paid lobola. When challenged that she had been abused, she angrily insisted the prophets had "saved" her life.

Another woman said multiple prophets ran the site, even performing rituals for sex workers who wanted to keep clients. "This place was always full, even women from other cities came," she said.

Local residents expressed disgust. "What kind of church is this? Our wives were naked before these men," fumed one man. Others said the prophets disappeared after the video leak.

Community leaders condemned the practice. Village head Vidco Maseko said government should intervene "without violating freedom of worship," while Ward 17 Councillor Skhululekile Moyo called for cleansing rituals, claiming the site was polluting the forest and "causing drought."

Traditional group Nkethabatshabe Amasiko announced plans to cleanse the area. Its leader, Lameck Joseph Moyo, said the underwear and bottles scattered around the shrine were "blocking the rain."

Local residents have also urged the Environmental Management Agency and Bulawayo City Council to clear the bush, which has become home to dozens of unregistered churches.