Prophet Magaya remains in prison

Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder Walter Magaya yesterday remained behind bars despite being granted US$3,000 bail by the High Court in Harare, amid reports that he was set to be re-arrested immediately upon release.

Magaya, who has now spent 12 days in custody since his arrest on November 1, opted not to pay the bail, with sources indicating that doing so would have been futile as law enforcement officials were prepared to place him back in remand prison on separate charges.

The embattled cleric is facing a growing list of fraud and rape charges, with legal experts suggesting that if convicted, the combined offences could attract lengthy prison sentences.

Magaya's troubles stem from a string of allegations, including a botched housing project that allegedly defrauded congregants of thousands of dollars, and rape accusations lodged by a former church member.

He is expected to return to court on November 18 for routine remand proceedings.