Madzibaba Ishmael in court over having sex with mi...

Madzibaba Ishmael in court over having sex with minors

Zim Now Writer

Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, the leader of the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect, has again appeared before the Norton Magistrates’ Court facing new charges.

Madzibaba Ishmael is facing five fresh counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor”.

Prosecutors allege that Chokurongerwa engaged in sexual relations with five minors between 2018 and 2024.

The 54-year-old allegedly has sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old, resulting in the birth of an infant, a 13-year-old, resulting in the birth of an infant.

He also reportedly has sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old with whom he now has two children, a 15-year-old with whom he has a child and a 16-year-old, resulting in the birth of another infant.

The 54-year-old was arrested several weeks ago together with seven other members of his sect.

They were charged with violating the Burial and Children’s Act.

The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased.

Chokurongerwa was last week granted bail by the High Court after spending almost two months in remand prison on previous charges.

The Court ruled that there was no longer any risk that Madzibaba Ishmael would interfere with witnesses,

The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.