Prophet Walter Magaya Dramatically Re-Arrested Moments After Exiting Court

Prophet Walter Magaya Re-Arrested After Exiting Court

In a dramatic court car park scene, prominent religious figure Walter Magaya was re-arrested today, moments after his separate rape and fraud cases were postponed. The leader of PHD Ministries was taken into custody by the Criminal Investigations Department as he left the Harare Magistrates Court, with the nature of the new charges still unclear.

The day began with significant developments in the long-running rape case against the prophet. State prosecutor Ms Tendai Shonhayi informed Magistrate Francis Mapfumo that the trial could not commence due to unresolved issues. A major sticking point involved the first complainant, who is now based in Ireland.

Ms Shonhayi explained the logistical and financial hurdles, stating:

“There had been a communication breakdown between the State and the first complainant, who is based in Ireland. The issue concerns who will fund the complainant’s travel expenses to Zimbabwe. Additionally, the complainant is yet to sign her statement.”

Defence Lawyer’s Frustration Boils Over

Magaya’s defence lawyer, Mr Admire Rubaya, voiced strong opposition to any further delays. He argued that the state of the case meant his client should be released from remand entirely. Mr Rubaya revealed a critical development regarding the second accuser.

He told the court:

“The second complainant in the case has since filed an affidavit withdrawing the charges against Magaya.”

Mr Rubaya demanded finality, stressing that the state should have resolved its procedural issues before the hearing. Magistrate Mapfumo deferred the rape trial to tomorrow, 27 January 2026, for a ruling on whether the matter will proceed or be postponed further.

A Sudden Arrest Amidst Legal Limbo

Following the adjournment, Magaya’s separate fraud case was postponed to 27 March 2026, pending indictment by the High Court. As Magaya and his legal team exited the court building, the unexpected occurred. According to an eyewitness report, plainclothes officers apprehended the prophet.

ZimLive reported:

“Self-styled prophet Walter Magaya has just been re-arrested at the Harare Magistrates Court after his trial for allegedly raping two women appeared to have collapsed. The court heard one of his accusers has withdrawn her complaint, while the second is now based in Ireland. Magaya was driven away from court in a vehicle marked 76 CID. It’s unclear what new charges he faces.”

The arrest was confirmed by ZTN, which stated Magaya was arrested “as he and his team were leaving the court.” Authorities have not yet provided details on the reasons for this fresh arrest, leaving the public and media to speculate on this new legal twist for the embattled church leader.