Prophet Matondo exonorated of extortion charges

Self-styled prophet, Charles Matondo, has been cleared of extortion charges after a couple he had helped with prayers claimed they were defrauded of its US$70 000.

Through his lawyer, Oliver Marwa, Matondo managed to convince the court that the matter was a fabrication after a misunderstanding with the complainant, Killiana Bangure.

The court ruled that the State had failed to establish a prima face case against claims that Matondo had deceived Bangure and her husband that their Glen Lorne house had evil spirits.

Bangure had told the court that she wanted to rent out her house to Matondo who upon viewing the premises had alleged that the house was haunted needing special cleansing.

She claimed Matondo declared the house needed to be cleansed before she was barred from visiting the premises for three months.

The couple alleged that it was overwhelmed by fear and allowed Matondo to use the house without paying rent.

Bangure alleged that after cleansing, Matondo demanded US$70 000 for his services failure to which he would bring calamity on her husband and son.

However, the State failed to provide any proof that Matondo received any amount from Bangure or her husband.

Matondo was acquitted and discharged.