Church hunts for fake prophets in Midlands

Gweru (New Ziana) – An astronomical increase in the number of fake prophets and pastors in the Midlands Province has prompted the Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe (ACCZ) to launch a probe into the activities of the rogue religious leaders, targeting those claiming to belong to the church group.

The prophets are swindling vulnerable people of their hard earned money and other valuables through false prophesies and other religious ceremonies.

This, the ACCZ has said, was tarnishing its image in the eyes of the public.

The church group said it was also targeting affiliates that condoned abuse of women and children by allowing child marriages.

ACCZ chairperson, Bishop Justin Banda, said the church group was keen to restore order and discipline within its ranks, and win back public trust and respect.

“False prophets are involved in criminal activities such as rape, robbery, abuse and child marriages. In that regard we encourage people to seek medical assistance when it’s required. During the tour we have found out more than seven culprits from ‘nguwo-stvuku’ sect claiming to belong to Micho,” he said.

“They don’t have licenses and at their shrines we found bottles of beer (Super) and knives. Their shrines are being used as surgeries and that’s were women are being victimized.”

Bishop Banda said some of the self-proclaimed prophets did not come from Midlands Province, but came to the province on regular visits from Harare and Ruwa.

“Some ran away when we invade their shrines whilst some refuse with their identification and information pertaining to their church. This was a shocker. Why would someone run away if he is clean?”

Bishop Banda said the church group was also keen to ensure affiliates complied with government Covid-19 regulations meant to prevent the spread of the pandemic.

“As a council, we work hand in glove with the government upon issues that concern apostolic churches. Our mission as ACCZ is to ensure all church leaders and members practice good hygiene and always use sanitizers, wear face masks and practice social distance whenever they do church gatherings.

“During the tour, in Gweru urban, we noticed that some churches are not complying with COVID-19 regulations as they do not have sanitizers and their members do not put on face masks and are operating as if Coronavirus is now a thing of the past,” he said.

New Ziana