Prophet Magaya and wife to appear in court

Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder Walter Magaya and his wife, Tendai Magaya, are set to appear before a Harare magistrate this afternoon to answer to charges of rape and fraud.

The couple arrived at the Harare Magistrates Court this morning and were still undergoing vetting processes ahead of their formal court appearance.

According to court officials, Walter Magaya faces both rape and fraud charges, while his wife is facing fraud charges.

Two of the couple's security guards are also expected to appear in court facing charges of obstructing the course of justice. They allegedly attacked police officers who arrested Magaya on Saturday, in an attempt to prevent his detention.

PHD Ministries congregants have already filled the courtroom in support of their church leaders as the pair await the start of proceedings.

Magaya, a high-profile preacher whose ministry has attracted thousands of followers locally and abroad, is being represented by lawyers Everson Chatambudza and Admire Rubaya.

More details are expected to emerge when the matter is formally presented in court later today.