Prophet sentenced to prison for armed robbery

A self-styled prophet from Masendu Village in Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe, Mpindeni Ncube, aged 44, has been sentenced to six months in prison after being convicted of armed robbery. 

Once respected in his community as a spiritual guide, Ncube’s reputation was tarnished following his conviction by Plumtree resident magistrate Joshua Nembaware.

The robbery took place on September 27, 2024, near Ndiweni Business Centre in Madlambuzi, Plumtree. Ncube reportedly ambushed the victim, Siyabulela Mabhena, threatening him with an okapi knife. During the confrontation, Ncube demanded Mabhena’s belongings, warning that he would harm him if he did not comply. In a brief struggle, he forcibly took Mabhena’s Samsung Grand Prime phone, valued at approximately US$50.

After the robbery, the shocked victim returned to the business centre and sought assistance from local patrons. A group quickly organized a search party, successfully tracking Ncube to the nearby Mzwanyana area. Upon confronting him, they recovered both the stolen phone and the knife used in the assault.

During court proceedings, Ncube, who pleaded guilty, provided a shocking explanation for his actions. He claimed to have just returned from Botswana, where he had offered spiritual services but was not compensated. Stranded and without money for his return journey, he felt compelled to commit the robbery. Initially seeking cash, he resorted to stealing Mabhena’s phone when that plan failed.

Ncube’s candid admission left the courtroom in disbelief, as many found it difficult to reconcile the actions of a man of faith with his desperate choices.

Magistrate Nembaware sentenced Ncube to a total of 12 months in prison, suspending half of the term on the condition of good behaviour. This case serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding crime and desperation in vulnerable communities.