Self-styled prophet remanded over rape of minor

BINDURA - A self-proclaimed prophet from Chiweshe has been remanded in custody after allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl who had been brought to him for spiritual healing.

Noah Ngiriro appeared before the Bindura Magistrates Court, where the state - led by prosecutor Tracy Dube - outlined disturbing allegations stemming from an incident that occurred last year.

According to the prosecution, the minor had been experiencing what her family believed were spiritual attacks. Her grandmother regularly took her to Ngiriro for prayers and healing sessions.

During the second school term last year, the girl reportedly became dizzy while walking home from school. She was accompanied by a friend who rushed ahead to alert her grandmother. Left alone, Ngiriro allegedly took advantage of her vulnerable state, dragged her into nearby bushland, and raped her.

The case only came to light after the girl relocated to a neighbouring village and confided in her sister. The sister informed their father, who then accompanied the child to the police station to file a report.

Ngiriro was subsequently arrested and is being held pending further legal proceedings.