Prophet faces court over $20,700 'spiritual' scam

A Bulawayo prophet, Madzibaba Lenny, has been remanded for trial after allegedly defrauding a 61-year-old woman of $20 700 and three vehicles under the guise of spiritual cleansing. The case has shocked the community, highlighting how religious fraud can escalate into elaborate and costly schemes.

According to court documents, the victim, Innocentia Sekani of Bulawayo, first came into contact with Lenny between March and August 2025 after her daughter sought spiritual help. Lenny reportedly claimed that Sekani's daughter needed deliverance and that their home required cleansing, setting off a series of escalating demands.

"The first visit was terrifying," Sekani told the court. "They ‘removed a live snake' from my daughter's wardrobe and another from my bedroom. After that, they demanded $3 000 within two hours, or else. Naturally, the payment was made."

The scheme continued as Lenny insisted that more money was needed to appease spirits. Sekani was allegedly forced to sell her Toyota Hilux for $9 500 and hand over the cash to the prophet. Subsequent demands included selling a Mazda Demio for $2 200 and a Toyota Aqua valued at $7 000, with only the Aqua eventually recovered. Additional fees of $250, along with bus fare and food money, were also extorted from Sekani.

The scam involved elaborate instructions, including trips to multiple shrines and the throwing of cash into the Mguza River, which was collected by accomplices. Lenny reportedly alternated between spiritual proclamations and threats, claiming that her daughter's misfortunes were caused by evil spirits or even a former boyfriend, further coercing Sekani to part with cash and property.

Madzibaba Lenny now faces five counts, including fraud, extortion, and unlawful possession of property. His accomplices remain at large, and he has been remanded for trial on 8 December 2025.

This case has served as a stark warning to Bulawayo residents about the dangers of unscrupulous self-styled prophets who exploit faith and fear for personal gain. Sekani's ordeal- culminating in the loss of $20 700 and three vehicles- underscores the need for vigilance and awareness in dealings with spiritual figures.

Authorities have advised residents to exercise caution and remain skeptical of extravagant spiritual claims, reminding the public that not all prophets are genuine and that faith should never come at the cost of one's livelihood.