HARARE — The leader of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, Prophet Walter Magaya, has been arrested in Harare in connection with multiple allegations of rape and fraud, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed on Saturday morning. The development marks one of the most high-profile arrests of a religious figure in Zimbabwe in recent years and has sent shockwaves through the nation’s Pentecostal community.
According to an official statement released on November 1, 2025, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that Magaya was taken into custody by a special police crack team following several reports lodged against him.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Church Leader, Walter Magaya, in connection with several reports of rape and fraud,” Commissioner Nyathi stated. “More details will be released in due course.”
The brief but strongly worded statement did not disclose the number of complainants involved or provide specific details about the allegations. Police officials said investigations were still at a preliminary stage and that a full statement would be issued once the facts had been verified.
Magaya, one of Zimbabwe’s most influential yet controversial religious figures, has long courted both devotion and controversy. As the founder of PHD Ministries, he commands a vast following, with tens of thousands of congregants regularly attending his services at the church’s headquarters in Waterfalls, Harare. His ministry, which blends Pentecostal worship with claims of prophetic healing and deliverance, has attracted visitors from across Africa and beyond.
While Magaya’s church has grown rapidly over the past decade, his rise has not been without controversy. Over the years, he has faced several allegations — including sexual misconduct, deceit, and financial irregularities — all of which he has repeatedly denied. He has also been accused of exploiting the faith of vulnerable followers through “miracle healing” claims and the sale of anointing oils said to cure illnesses.
In 2019, Magaya made headlines when he announced a controversial herbal remedy he claimed could treat HIV and AIDS, prompting condemnation from medical professionals and government authorities. He later retracted the claim and apologised publicly.
Police Arrest Walter Magaya on Rape and Fraud Charges
Despite these controversies, Magaya has maintained a loyal following and often presented himself as a misunderstood spiritual leader under attack. His supporters describe him as a visionary man of God with a gift for prophecy, while critics see him as a manipulative figure who has built wealth and influence through deception.
According to sources familiar with the matter, police launched a discreet investigation several weeks ago after multiple women reportedly filed complaints alleging sexual assault. The alleged incidents are said to have taken place over an extended period, though official confirmation on this remains pending.
ZRP officials say the case will be handled with “sensitivity and professionalism,” given the gravity of the accusations and the prominence of the accused. Magaya is expected to appear before the courts once formal charges are filed.
As of Saturday afternoon, he remained in police custody, where he was being questioned by detectives. Authorities are said to be gathering documentary evidence related to the fraud allegations, which reportedly involve large sums of money and possible misuse of church funds.
News of Magaya’s arrest has spread rapidly across social media, sparking widespread debate and mixed emotions. Supporters of the charismatic preacher have called for calm and urged people to refrain from rushing to conclusions until due process is complete. Others, however, have expressed outrage, calling for justice and accountability if the allegations are proven true.
Many Zimbabweans have taken to social media platforms to express disbelief, disappointment, or suspicion, with the hashtag #MagayaArrested trending on X (formerly Twitter) by midday. Some users compared the situation to previous scandals involving religious leaders across Africa, where allegations of sexual and financial abuse have often surfaced in megachurch settings.
Legal analysts have described the case as a significant test for Zimbabwe’s justice system, particularly in how it handles powerful public figures accused of serious crimes.
“This case will test both the impartiality of the courts and the resilience of public institutions,” said Harare-based lawyer Tariro Mavhinga. “No one, regardless of status or influence, should be above the law. At the same time, it’s important that investigations are conducted fairly and without prejudice.”For years, Magaya’s PHD Ministries has stood as one of the most influential Pentecostal movements in Zimbabwe, boasting a massive congregation and a strong media presence. His arrest, analysts say, could deal a blow to the church’s reputation and shake confidence among his followers.
Observers believe the development could also reignite calls for tighter regulation of religious institutions in Zimbabwe, many of which operate with minimal oversight despite commanding huge followings and collecting substantial funds.
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the ZRP and the courts to determine whether the evidence supports the serious charges now facing the self-proclaimed prophet.
For now, Prophet Walter Magaya — once hailed by followers as a man of miracles — finds himself at the centre of a deepening criminal investigation, his legacy hanging in the balance as Zimbabwe awaits the next chapter in this unfolding story.
Source- Bulawayo24
