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POLICE are investigating a Harare church which
claimed to be affiliated to the controversial
Nigerian preacher, TB Joshua, after scores of
people reported to have paid thousands of
dollars for trips to the West African country which
never materialised.
The church, which is based in Sunridge,
Mabelreign, allegedly promised members trips to
TB Joshua's Synagogue Church Of All Nations
(SCOAN) which is headquartered in Lagos.
TB Joshua is reputed across Africa to have
mythical healing powers which has seen
thousands of people from around the world with
various personal problems and ailments flocking
to his church.
Claiming to be operating under the express
direction and instruction of TB Joshua, the Harare
church was also selling bottles of "holy water"
allegedly used by the preacher for his healing
sessions.
Dozens of desperate people seeking a quick
solution to their life problems were shelling out
up to US$50 for a bottle of the "miracle water"
which TB Joshua is said to give out for free.
But the scam was exposed after TB Joshua issued
a statement distancing his organisation from the
Harare church, forcing its members to rush to the
police in a bid to recover their money.
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector
James Sabau confirmed investigations were
underway.
Some arrests have been made but sources close
to the developments said the scam's
masterminds â€" a Dutch national known only as
Eric and a local woman, Shaleen Manhiri â€" fled
the country when their cover was blown after
attracting huge numbers of followers within a
short period of time.
TB Joshua has divided local opinion following
reports he would attend national prayer meeting
scheduled for May 25 at the invitation of MDC-T
leader and Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai