IN a harrowing revelation, a Zimbabwean sect leader, described as a ‘self-styled prophet,’ has been brought to court on charges of child abuse following a police raid on his farm. The raid uncovered more than 200 children subjected to labour exploitation under the guise of ‘life skills’ training, authorities reported.
According to a police statement, the children, found on the farm in Nyabira, about 30 km west of Harare, were forced into manual labour, devoid of proper education and documentation. Shockingly, the discovery also included unregistered graves, raising serious concerns about the welfare of minors within the sect.
Ishmael Chokurongerwa, 56, the leader of the religious group, along with seven of his followers, was apprehended this week in connection with the disturbing findings. Although no pleas were taken during the court appearance, police spokesperson Paul Nyathi affirmed ongoing investigations, hinting at potential additional charges.
State media outlet H-Metro disclosed that Chokurongerwa and his associates have been remanded in custody until March 19, awaiting a bail ruling. The charges against them include violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
Video footage from the raid depicted a scene of women and children dressed in white, seated under a tree and singing, before being escorted away by authorities. This event sheds light on the prevalence of apostolic sects in Zimbabwe, where issues of abuse and exploitation have been previously reported.
Chokurongerwa, also known as Madzibaba Ishmael, is linked to the Johane Masowe or ‘white garment’ church, a group with a history of controversies involving the mistreatment of women and children, including allegations of child marriages. As the case unfolds, it underscores broader concerns about safeguarding vulnerable members within religious communities in the country.