Prophet in court facing rape charge

A 27-year-old self-proclaimed prophet from Harare has appeared in court facing rape charges after allegedly luring a 23-year-old woman under the guise of offering spiritual assistance.

The State alleges that the accused sexually assaulted the woman from Rusape after convincing her that he had spiritual powers to help resolve her personal and health-related challenges.

According to court proceedings, the complainant first encountered the accused on March 12 at a shop in Rusape, where he allegedly introduced himself as a spiritual healer capable of assisting people facing various life difficulties.

It is further alleged that the pair met again on March 29, when the accused reportedly took the woman to a prayer site in Norton before later leading her to a lodge in Waterfalls, where the alleged offence is said to have taken place.

The court heard that the accused allegedly threatened the complainant with spiritual harm if she did not comply with his instructions.

The matter came to light after the complainant confided in a friend before reporting the incident to police, resulting in the suspect's arrest.

The accused is expected to return to court on April 29 as the case continues.