Magaya slams ‘megaphone investigations’ as preacher is remanded to December 9

HARARE – Prophet Walter Magaya, the founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, has criticised what he termed “megaphone investigations,” arguing that police statements issued on social media should not influence ongoing legal processes.

His remarks came as he and his wife, Tendai, were remanded to 9 December for the State to finalise its investigations and provide a trial date.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Magaya is facing 78 counts of fraud and five counts of rape.

Magaya’s lawyer, Admire Rubaya, told the court that the defence was ready to proceed and objected to the manner in which police have been publicising aspects of the case.

“Cases are not won by police statements on social media. The investigating team must take a leaf from their homicide counterparts,” he said, warning that continued postponements would prejudice the accused.

Although consenting to the delay, the defence placed the State on notice, expressing hope that a definitive trial date will be set on 9 December.

Magaya, was recently arrested and spent several days in remand prison before being granted US$3,000 bail by the High Court. He is facing rape and fraud charges.

The proceedings come after the Zimbabwe Republic Police issued a public statement alleging a coordinated attempt to interfere with investigations.

Authorities claimed a syndicate, reportedly operating from South Africa, was raising US$200,000 to compromise investigators, prosecutors and judicial officers involved in the case.

Police urged anyone approached with offers or inducements to report the matter immediately.