Crimes and Courts Correspondent
The trial of self-proclaimed Prophet Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, which was scheduled to begin yesterday, has been postponed to December 11 due to the unavailability of his lawyer, Musindo Hungwe.
Chokurongerwa appeared before Harare regional magistrate Estere Chivasa, who granted the postponement at the request of the defense.
The case involves multiple complainants, all of whom were 14 years old at the time of the alleged incidents. They are members of the Johane Masowe eChishanu Gorejena Penyeranyika Sect and reside at Lily Farm in Nyabira.
Allegations Against Chokurongerwa
The court heard that between February 2023 and March 12, 2024, Chokurongerwa allegedly used his leadership and influence to rape the first complainant, resulting in her giving birth to a baby girl on January 27, 2024. The matter came to light in March this year, leading to a police investigation.
According to the State, the second complainant was raped from 2018 until early this year, giving birth to a baby boy in 2022. The third complainant reported being raped between 2020 and early this year, also resulting in the birth of a baby boy.
DNA Evidence
A DNA test was conducted on all the children and Chokurongerwa at the National University of Science and Technology. The State claims that the results confirmed he is the father of the children involved.
The DNA Paternity Test Certificates are being held as exhibits and will be presented during the trial. Oscar Madhume is representing the State in this case.
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