Venus Charumbira
Courts and Crimes Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
A 35-year-old bodyguard to a prominent church leader has been remanded in custody after he allegedly attempted to obstruct justice in a rape investigation involving his employer.
Tapiwa Felix Chikondo appeared before the court facing charges of defeating or obstructing the course of justice.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Chikondo tried to interfere with witnesses to derail police investigations into a rape complaint lodged against the church leader.
“Investigators allege that in November 2025, Chikondo contacted the complainant’s mother, urging her not to cooperate with law enforcement”, said the authority.
He reportedly sent her US$200 via EcoCash for transport to Harare in an attempt to settle the matter privately. On 28 November, he allegedly visited the complainant’s home to further discuss the case and was cautioned about interfering with police investigations.
Police linked Chikondo to the EcoCash transaction through agent records recovered on 1 December. He was arrested on 2 December 2025.
The NPA has issued a stern warning, no individual regardless of social standing or affiliation is permitted to obstruct police investigations The State will act decisively to protect the administration of justice.
The case underscores the growing concern over interference in judicial processes, especially in sensitive cases such as sexual offences.
Follow Zim GBC News for Updates 📱 WhatsApp/Hotline: +263 773 820 323 🌐 Website: www.zimgbcnews.co.zw 📘 Facebook: Zim GBC News 🐦 X (Twitter): @ZimGBCNews 📸 Instagram: @ZimGBCNews ▶️ YouTube: Zim GBC News
ZimGBCNews | Global News From An African Perspective©️2025