The Hawks says they will not comment on speculation that Malawian self-proclaimed prophet, Chipiloro Gama, commonly known as Shepherd Bushiri; was in the country and has once again evaded arrest.
On Sunday, 20 June, 2021 the City Press reported that security agencies are investigating credible claims that the wanted fugitive and his wife Mary, have been in the country several times since his dramatic escape in 2020. The paper reported that the Bushiris most recent visit was two months ago.
BUSHIRI ALLEGED TO BE IN SA 3 TIMES AFTER HIS ESCAPE:
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Philani Nkwalase has called on anyone with information to come forward. |
| Bushiri Latest: Hawks Reticent On Allegations ‘Prophet’ Evaded Arrest AGAIN! |
The Directorate says the process of bringing Bushiri back to South Africa is being handled by competent authorities in line with extradition arrangements, therefore, at the right time, it will inform the country of any developments regarding the extradition process.
MALAWI COURT WANTS SA WITNESSES TO APPEAR IN PERSON:
On Tuesday, 8 June, the Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court ruled that South African witnesses in the Bushiri extradition trial must appear, in person, in Malawi.The decision was made by Magistrate Patrick Chirwa after state prosecutors applied for witnesses to make their depositions via video call, according to News24. Chirwa said there was no legal basis on which the court could allow for a video conference hearing, in his judgement, saying that the witnesses avail themselves to present their depositions.
Steve Kayuni, the Malawi Director of Public Prosecutions, told media outlets that the court order would be respected. “The arrangements have to be made. Discussions have to be had to ensure that the order of the court is duly accordingly taken” said Kayuni.
Bushiri was the founder of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church.
He and his wife face charges of money laundering, fraud, and theft to the value of more than R102 million.
