A Harare court heard fraud allegations on Tuesday against religious leader Walter Magaya, who prosecutors say deceived church members by falsely claiming ownership of property belonging to former central bank chief Gideon Gono. Authorities allege the cleric obtained a single-season farming agreement at Gono's New Donnington Farm, then brought potential buyers to the site while presenting himself as the landowner. His wife, Tendai, accompanied him during negotiations with Gono but did not reveal the misrepresentation, according to court documents.
Prosecutors claim the couple collected about $49,000 and 195,000 rand from congregants for residential plots in Chishawasha, Norton and Mutare through their companies Planet Africa and Yadah Connect. Buyers discovered the properties belonged to others after conducting ownership checks. The pair faces 13 fraud charges and five rape counts, with the latter proceedings closed to the media.
Defense attorneys sought immediate release, arguing police held both beyond the 48-hour constitutional limit after arrests at 5 a.m. on Saturday. State prosecutor Clement Chimbare opposed bail, stating alleged rights violations do not eliminate criminal liability. Magistrate proceedings continue as authorities pursue the case against the couple.
Prosecutors claim the couple collected about $49,000 and 195,000 rand from congregants for residential plots in Chishawasha, Norton and Mutare through their companies Planet Africa and Yadah Connect. Buyers discovered the properties belonged to others after conducting ownership checks. The pair faces 13 fraud charges and five rape counts, with the latter proceedings closed to the media.
Defense attorneys sought immediate release, arguing police held both beyond the 48-hour constitutional limit after arrests at 5 a.m. on Saturday. State prosecutor Clement Chimbare opposed bail, stating alleged rights violations do not eliminate criminal liability. Magistrate proceedings continue as authorities pursue the case against the couple.
