ST THOMAS PRISON CRUSADE REPORT – 2024

**BY MRS PREVIOUS MATINGWINA **

THE BACKGROUND AND THE CALL

“If you are not serious about worshipping God, these very children will chase you away and you will not be able to worship here.”

These words were spoken repeatedly by the man of God, Reverend F. M. Nyika. Though many ignored them, God remained faithful to fulfil what He had spoken through His servant.

From August 2020, when Reverend P. D. Zinyama took over leadership, a clear call to repentance was sounded. God invited His people to sanctification. During this time, Reverend Zinyama prayed specifically for young men to receive discernment from the Holy Spirit. This ushered in a new dimension, reminiscent of Reverend Nyika’s declaration, “I am God’s dog; I bark at sin.”

These young men became uncompromising toward hidden sin. Those who rejected holiness and insisted on remaining in sin were instructed to leave the Movement and never return. Some of those who left later aligned themselves with Mrs Blessing Muchemwa, who was still within the Movement. What followed was a calculated plan involving false accusations of kidnapping, rape, and cultism, allegedly supported by senior police and government officials in Mashonaland East Province.

THE ARREST

Thursday, 25 April 2024

On Thursday night, 25 April 2024, during a daily church service, a police officer and a social welfare officer arrived at the church premises claiming they were looking for children. When asked to provide names, they could not. As such, no assistance could be rendered.

Shortly thereafter, Mrs Blessing Muchemwa arrived. This was unusual, as she resided in Harare, approximately 80 kilometres from Marondera. Following her arrival, police descended on the premises in force — searchlights, a police truck, approximately ten armed officers carrying two rifles, and five social welfare officers.

Assistant Inspector Gomo claimed that Mr Muchemwa was searching for his children, alleging they were at the mission house. It was clarified that the children were in the custody of their mother. Mrs Muchemwa was called from inside the church. She appeared visibly jittery and reluctant to come outside.

After discussion, it was agreed that the children would be called out and that Mrs Muchemwa would take them to the police station to resolve the matter. The Executor and SG retrieved the children and presented them to the police.

Mrs Muchemwa then stated that she would transport the children to the police camp using her own vehicle, which was parked in a restricted area reserved for Captain and Spiritual Movement vehicles. She claimed she did not want her children “traumatised” by passing through the main gate due to possible media presence.

As the men returned toward the church building, Assistant Inspector Gomo shouted, accusing them of hiding Mrs Muchemwa and the children. Concerned that she might not proceed to the police station — thereby implicating the church — the Executor decided to follow her.

While this occurred, officers entered the premises through another gate. Upon instruction, the main gate was opened. Immediately, Gomo stormed in and ordered the arrest of Pastor L. Zinyama, who was violently manhandled and handcuffed.

Police then stormed into the church building where the Captain was preaching. One officer cocked his rifle, another ordered the preaching to stop, and congregants were forced to disperse.

The Executor later received confirmation from the police station that Mrs Muchemwa and the children had arrived. When this information was relayed to Gomo, he responded, “Ahhh, I have already arrested people.”

Upon returning, the Executor found a hostile mob gathered, celebrating as four men were hurled into a police truck. Members of the mob identified the Executor, shouting for his arrest. He was violently handcuffed and thrown into the vehicle.

Eight individuals were arrested:

·       Luckymore Zinyama (58) (SG)

·       Farai Maisiri (44) (Chibaba)

·       Prisage Maisiri (32)

·       Ngoni Zinyama (27) (Executor)

·       Stallon Chakasvipa (23)

·       Tadiwa Mutisi (17)

·       Anesu Takunyai (18)

·       Tamirirashe Chiwade (16) (Tami)

Approximately 30 minors were transported by social welfare to Mushawevana Children’s Home.

DAY 1

** THERE IS NO ONE LIKE JESUS **

The men were first taken to Dombotombo Police Station for processing but were later transferred to Marondera Central Police Station due to lack of holding cells. En route, officers accused them of satanism and attempted intimidation. One vocal officer referred to himself as “Black Jesus.” He was confronted and told plainly that lying identifies one as a child of the devil.

Upon arrival in the cells — dark, overcrowded, and unsanitary — God instructed the Executor that preaching must begin immediately. The 8 men sang “Hakuna zita seraJesu.” God’s presence descended powerfully. 11 prisoners accepted Christ that night.

Brother Tamirirashe (“Tami”), the youngest among them, gave a powerful testimony of repentance. A CID officer later testified that the singing had touched his spirit during night duty.

The Officer Commanding offered release in exchange for admission of disorderly conduct and a US$30 fine each. This was declined, as it would be used to support false allegations.

DAY 2

In the morning Tami was released on account that he was below the age of 18. During the night, Emmanuel and Willard were added to the cell. The gospel was preached, and both accepted Christ. Emmanuel confessed having a child out of wedlock in Botswana and expressed a desire to make things right.

That night, God revealed that the men would be sent to St Thomas Prison for the purpose of preaching.

DAY 3

Saturday morning brought hope of release, yet God’s voice continued to confirm that St Thomas Prison lay ahead. Delays ensured remand. Shackled and chained, they were transported. Preaching broke out inside the prison truck, silencing mocking guards.

Upon arrival at St Thomas Prison, their formal attire drew attention. That evening, preaching in Cell 8 led to approximately 60 inmates receiving Christ.

DAY 4

** GIVEN AUTHORITY TO PREACH **

The day began with prayer, as was now the established order in Cell 8. Before any activity, the inmates gathered quietly, and prayer was offered to God. By this time, prayer had ceased to be an interruption to prison routine and had become an accepted part of life in the cell.

The missionaries had been informed that there would be a combined church service for all prisoners later that day. However, the Holy Spirit instructed them clearly not to wait for that service. Instead, they were directed to go cell by cell and preach the gospel wherever doors could be opened. It later became clear that the promised combined service was a distraction, as it never took place. Had they waited, the entire day of preaching would have been lost.

Permission was requested from prison authorities, and against normal regulations—which do not allow prisoners to preach to other prisoners—permission was granted. This was the first clear sign that God Himself had gone ahead of them.

St Thomas Prison consisted of eight standard cells and one maximum-security section. The missionaries moved in pairs, while SG remained stationed in Cell 8, which now functioned as a command centre. As they entered each cell, they were introduced by Chitsa, the head prisoner, who told the inmates that permission had been granted for preaching and that they should listen attentively.

The gospel was preached clearly and without compromise. Calls to repentance were made, and many responded. By the end of the day, approximately six hundred inmates across the prison had heard the word of God.

Three of the missionaries—Stallon, Anesu, and Tadiwa—were transferred to the Juvenile Cell due to their age. This created a second centre of revival within the prison. The gospel was preached powerfully among the juveniles, many of whom responded with repentance.

In the evening, preaching continued in the cells where the missionaries were housed. When they arrived in Cell 8, Robert, a young man who harboured resentment toward the missionaries due to a previous rebuke during street evangelism, attempted to discredit them publicly. He shouted accusations, claiming they had beaten police officers and insulted people during preaching, hoping to turn inmates against them.

Despite this resistance, the missionaries requested to speak with Remember, who was in charge of the cell. He granted them permission to preach during the evening prayer time. As the gospel was preached, a deep silence fell over the cell. Even those known for serious crimes, including rape and armed robbery, listened attentively.

The power of God subdued all opposition. Robert fell asleep during the preaching, and order was restored. Approximately sixty inmates responded to the call to salvation that evening. The missionaries divided themselves to pray for those who had raised their hands, laying hands on them individually.

By the end of the day, exhaustion was replaced with joy. The discomforts of prison life faded in comparison to the work God had done. It became clear that God had not only opened doors to preach but had given them authority to do so.

DAY 5

** FIRST COURT **

Morning Prayer was led as usual. Remember, who was in charge of Cell 8, led the prayer session. Those who were going to court requested prayer and were prayed for. There was strong expectation that bail would be granted.

At court, Mr Masawi represented the men diligently. However, Assistant Inspector Gomo gave false testimony, claiming Pastor L. Zinyama was both Secretary General and President of the Movement, and therefore influential enough to interfere with investigations. He further claimed that others were closely connected to leadership and therefore should not be granted bail. He alleged that Mrs Muchemwa was still at large and being assisted by the accused.

The case was postponed to the following day. Many other prisoners were granted bail that day, strengthening faith among inmates that God was at work.

That evening, preaching continued in the cells, with encouragement given that God’s will would prevail.

DAY 6

** SANCTIFICATION – SECOND COURT **

On Tuesday morning, many inmates requested prayer before court. Mr Masawi was confident bail would be granted. However, God instructed the missionaries to request prison supplies, revealing that their stay was not yet over.

The focus shifted from release to obedience. Teaching on sanctification was introduced, including testimonies. Trymore testified about forgiving Mutunhu, whom he had previously hated. This marked a deep work of grace.

Other testimonies followed, including from City of Hope and Brian Matondo, who acknowledged the end of violence and fights since the missionaries’ arrival. Inmates requested increased prayer sessions.

DAY 7

** PREACHING OVERDRIVE **

May 1st, a public holiday, allowed inmates extended time outside. A combined service was organised. Over 600 inmates attended, including guards and the chaplain.

Chibaba preached a Christ-centred message on repentance and salvation. Approximately 80 souls responded. This was the largest single response in the history of the Movement. The chaplain later attempted to assert control, fearing loss of influence.

Further cell preaching continued into the evening. Executor and Stallon prayed for a crippled man, declaring healing. Though doubt arose, the healing would later be confirmed.

Bomber, the second‑in‑command prison guard, stood at a cell quietly listening. Afterward, he testified to other prison officials and the Chaplain that the missionaries were true preachers of the gospel. From that day onward, access to cells became much easier.

DAY 8

** CONTINUED MINISTRY **

The following day, the work continued steadily. Morning Prayer was observed without interruption, and the atmosphere in Cell 8 reflected growing reverence for God. Inmates now gathered willingly when prayer began, no longer needing persuasion.

Cell-by-cell preaching resumed. The missionaries moved in pairs, while SG remained at Cell 8, which had become a spiritual command centre. Inmates increasingly referred to Cell 8 as Bimha, after the street where the Movement’s headquarters is located, recognising it as a place of prayer, counsel, and spiritual order.

The hunger for the word of God increased noticeably. Inmates began asking questions about repentance, sanctification, and forgiveness. Confessions became more open and sincere. The missionaries observed that people were no longer merely responding emotionally but were beginning to understand the cost of repentance.

During the day, Captain visited and strengthened the missionaries. He encouraged them to remain focused on obedience rather than timelines, reminding them that when God sends, He also sustains. His visit renewed strength and clarity.

DAY 9

Morning Prayer was again held before court appearances. Although bail was denied for the missionaries, God’s hand was clearly visible elsewhere. Mavado, a feared gang leader and enforcer who had previously beaten other inmates, was unexpectedly released when the prosecution dropped all charges against him. This shocked both inmates and guards.

Many others were also released that day. The inmates openly praised God, believing that the prayers and preaching of the missionaries had contributed to the sudden movement of long-standing cases. Faith rose sharply throughout the remand section.

Upon returning from court, the missionaries were welcomed with joy. The inmates expressed relief that they had not been released, as they felt the presence of God strongly when they were around.

That evening, Trymore shared a dream. In the dream, he saw one of the missionaries wearing a jacket with the word Zion written on the back. He also revealed that the next time he would go to court would be the same day the missionaries would be released. This dream strengthened faith and expectation.

DAY 10

** LOOK INWARD **

On this day, God instructed the missionaries to stop looking outward for release and to look inward instead. The focus shifted fully to obedience and faithfulness. Prayer was deepened, and preaching became more deliberate and measured.

Attempts to gain access to the PB cell continued but were met with resistance. The delay taught patience and reinforced the understanding that doors opened by God cannot be forced.

An inmate approached SG and testified that he had seen him before prison and had intended to worship with the Movement. This encounter confirmed that the Holy Spirit had gone ahead of the missionaries, preparing hearts even before their arrival.

The missionaries were reminded that God was entertaining them, just as Captain had promised — not with comfort, but with evidence of His presence and work.

DAY 11

**ALLOW THEM TO INVESTIGATE **

A combined service was organised, but the environment was resistant and unsettled. Some inmates openly complained that the missionaries preached too strongly against masturbation and sexual sin. Despite this opposition, the preaching continued without compromise.

Eleven people accepted Christ during the service. The missionaries learned that God often selects individuals deliberately, even when crowds are small or hostile.

Bret, a juvenile inmate housed with the younger missionaries, confessed openly to bestiality. He repented and gave his life to Christ. Afterward, his behaviour changed noticeably, and he became active and attentive during services.

This day reinforced the understanding that God’s work does not depend on approval but on obedience.

DAY 12

** IF GOD IS FOR US **

Monday, 6 May 2024, was a routine remand day. By this stage, going to court had become more of a disruption to the work of the gospel than a source of hope for release. Morning Prayer was held as usual, with SG praying for those who were appearing in court. Another inmate also began praying for those going to court, which initially created tension, as some felt threatened or wanted ownership of the spiritual work.

Through this, God taught the missionaries an important lesson in humility — that no one owns God’s work. Prayer and ministry were not to be competed for, but shared. This brought peace and maturity among those leading the prayer sessions.

Tadiwa, who was due to sit for his O‑Level public examinations, began studying while in custody. Fellow inmates assisted him with lessons. This encouraged many, showing that even in prison, life and purpose had not stopped.

The prison chaplain preached that day on holiness. This greatly encouraged the missionaries, as it confirmed that God had begun to influence even the official spiritual structures within the prison. It was becoming clear that the message of sanctification had taken root.

Inmates from Cell 8 were not allowed outside, while prisoners from other cells were permitted out. This was one of the most difficult days emotionally and physically. The devil attempted to bring thoughts of past comforts and former life. Fasting was particularly challenging. In response, the missionaries held their own services inside the cell, openly testifying and rejecting the thoughts that were being planted in their minds.

Efforts to gain permission to preach in the PB cell continued, but resistance from the chaplain became more evident. It was clear that he did not want the missionaries to access that section. Despite this, the missionaries remained focused on obedience.

Captain continued to support the work from outside and communicated that the release of the children at Mushawevana Children’s Home would unlock everything. This word strengthened the missionaries to wait patiently.

That evening, Brian Matondo — known in prison as a “child of the jail” because of repeated arrests — gave a powerful testimony. He confessed that he had never wanted to hear about church before, yet whenever the missionaries preached, he found himself waking up to listen. This shocked many, as he often appeared disinterested during services.

Masango, a practitioner of ancestral worship who had previously been sought out by inmates for spiritual help in securing bail, went to court that day and was unsuccessful. This was a significant moment for the inmates, as it showed clearly that the power of God preached by the missionaries was greater than ancestral powers.

A former police officer who had consistently tried to block the missionaries’ preaching by holding alternative services and diverting attention away from repentance fell seriously ill. He could no longer conduct his meetings. This further confirmed to many that God would not allow His work to be obstructed.

By the end of Day 12, it was clear that the prison environment had changed. God had established His authority, strengthened the missionaries internally, and raised the faith of the inmates. The work was no longer fragile — it was firmly rooted.

DAY 13

** PB (MAXIMUM SECURITY) **

On this day, God opened a door that had been firmly closed since the missionaries arrived at St Thomas Prison. Permission was finally granted for preaching in the PB cell, which housed the most hardened and dangerous criminals. Security in this section was extremely tight. The cell was fully fenced, including the roof, and guarded closely.

Executor and Chibaba were selected to go. They were accompanied part of the way by Zviko, a member of the Christian Union committee. Their concern was not what they would preach, but whether the guards would allow them to enter.

When the gate was opened, the environment inside PB was chaotic and hostile. Some inmates were using snuff, others moved around aggressively, and several openly made rape threats and obscene gestures toward the two men, intending to intimidate and instil fear. Despite this, no fear entered their hearts. They remained calm and focused on the mission.

As preaching began, the atmosphere changed. Inmates gathered and listened. The gospel was preached clearly and without compromise. Many responded and gave their lives to Christ. The power of God subdued the environment.

Zviko quietly excused himself during the service and did not return, leaving the two missionaries alone. After praying for those who had responded, they requested to proceed to the second section of PB. The guard opened the gate.

In the second section, which was occupied mainly by elderly prisoners, the atmosphere was completely different. Chibaba preached and shared his testimony. The inmates requested another sermon after the first one ended. Many received Christ.

DAY 14

** TEMPTATION **

On this day, a serious test of obedience and faith was placed before the missionaries. Senior judicial officials, including a Provincial Magistrate, the Area Prosecutor, the Clerk of Court, and their assistants, visited the prison with the stated purpose of decongesting it.

Inmates were informed that those charged with minor offences, first‑time offenders, or those who could afford to pay fines or bail would be released. This was not a rumour; it was a real and organised process taking place before their eyes.

For the missionaries, this temptation was especially strong. They were first‑time offenders. The charges against them, if pursued, could result in a small fine of about US\30. They had access to resources and could easily have paid for their release. Many inmates urged them to take the opportunity, telling them their case was simple and that it made no sense to remain in prison.

The gravity of the moment was clear: they could leave prison within 24hrs by ordinary legal means, or they could remain and continue the work God had clearly started.

God had already instructed SG not to act independently but to wait for Captain’s direction. Obedience was required, not convenience. The missionaries refused to pursue release without spiritual instruction, choosing to remain where God had placed them.

That same day, representatives from the Bakers Association visited SG in the visitors’ area. They expressed concern that their President had been incarcerated and asked whether the matter was political. They offered assistance and influence to secure his freedom. SG declined all help and assured them that the situation was under God’s control.

The missionaries returned to the cells strengthened in conviction. They continued preaching despite resistance. Some inmates attempted to disrupt the work by introducing singing during testimonies to avoid true repentance. This was corrected so that sanctification could continue unhindered.

That day, the gospel was preached in two cells. 15 people responded and gave their lives to Christ. The missionaries understood that choosing obedience over an easy exit had preserved the integrity of the work.

They recognised that this was not merely a legal test, but a spiritual one — a choice between escaping hardships and completing the assignment God had given them.

DAY 15

** COMFORT **

The day began with Morning Prayer, followed by the arrival of representatives from ALPHA, who donated blankets in preparation for winter. Priority was given to long-term inmates. SG received a blanket due to his age and physical discomfort from sleeping on the floor.

This act of provision came at a critical time. Despite pain and fatigue, SG remained joyful, strengthened by the knowledge that God was aware of every need.

Later, social welfare officers summoned the Executor for questioning regarding the children taken to Mushawevana Children’s Home. Their speech revealed immorality and spiritual blindness. The Executor took the opportunity to present the gospel to them boldly.

That evening, testimonies continued. Berzel testified that he had been delivered from masturbation. Mutunhu testified that he no longer desired to steal and wanted to live uprightly. These testimonies brought comfort and renewed strength to the missionaries.

DAY 16

** ENTERTAINMENT FROM ABOVE **

The missionaries awoke with renewed joy. Morning Prayer was held, and SG continued to offer pastoral care at Bimha while the others preached throughout the prison.

God’s hand was evident in the movement of long-standing remand cases. Brighton and Manyenga, who were mentally ill and had waited months for psychiatric assessment, were informed that they would finally be transferred to Chikurubi Prison.

Inmates testified openly, attributing these changes to God’s presence. Forget confessed his true name was Simba, abandoning deception linked to past crimes. Others testified of abandoning smoking and other addictions.

The missionaries recognised that God was strengthening faith by showing visible progress in people’s lives and cases.

DAY 17

** ENTERTAINMENT **

Early in the morning, Brighton and Manyenga were transferred to Chikurubi Prison. A message from Captain reminded the missionaries that it is people who move the hands of God’s timing.

That same day, the crippled man previously prayed for by Executor and Stallon was seen walking freely. He testified that God had healed him. This confirmed what had been spoken in faith days earlier.

The missionaries rejoiced, strengthened by the knowledge that God had confirmed His word.

DAY 18

** THE PEAK **

By this day, it was clear that the spiritual work in the prison had reached its height. Resistance increased openly. Some inmates complained that they no longer wanted the missionaries to preach because the message confronted masturbation, pornography, and sexual sin. As a result, the missionaries were sidelined from the official order of service.

Despite this, they were called to pray for a critically ill elderly man who had gone for days without being able to relieve himself. Executor and Stallon were sent. As they prayed, God instructed them to tell the man that he was going to die. This was extremely difficult, but they obeyed.

God confirmed His authority by using other preachers that day to preach the same truth the missionaries had been teaching. One Mapostori preacher, inspired by the missionaries, used the Bible during his sermon—something forbidden in his sect. Another preacher followed with a message of repentance.

The head of the Mapostori sect later approached Chibaba and said that when he was released, he would pass through the Movement to be blessed.

Peace filled the prison. Guards who had previously opposed the missionaries acknowledged the impact of the gospel. Trymore testified publicly that before the missionaries arrived, they used to abuse visiting preachers, but he had prayed that God would send people who would live among them and preach from experience. He recognized the missionaries as an answer to that prayer.

It became clear that the mission was complete.

DAY 19

** THE FINALE **

The morning began like many others before it, with prayer. SG prayed for those who were going to court, committing them into the hands of God. By this stage, court appearances had become routine, and the missionaries no longer attached emotional expectation to outcomes. Their focus remained on obedience and finishing the work that God had clearly set before them.

Word had spread throughout the prison that many inmates were being released. Over the preceding days, long‑standing remand cases had been concluded, and prisoners who had lost hope were walking free. Inmates openly testified that before the arrival of the missionaries, nothing moved, but since the gospel had been preached daily, cases began to progress. This strengthened the belief among many that God had truly visited the prison.

Remember, who had supported the missionaries consistently from the beginning, was promoted and placed in charge of those going to court. This was received with joy, as it confirmed that God was also ordering leadership within the prison environment.

In the afternoon, prayer continued at Bimha (Cell 8). SG took the opportunity to teach the inmates about the three pillars he called the Three P’s: Prayer, Preaching, and Projects. He explained that the work of God must be sustained through by physically working and bringing resources to enable the preaching of the Gospel. This teaching was well received and marked a shift from initially thinking that donors should fund evangelism to realizing that it was everyone’s responsibility to provide for the Gospel.

Meanwhile, the younger missionaries continued preaching in other cells. In Cell 2, resistance arose again. Some inmates reacted angrily, complaining that the missionaries always preached about masturbation and sexual sin. Despite the hostility, the gospel was preached without compromise. 15 people responded and gave their lives to Christ, confirming once again that opposition could not stop the work God intended to do.

Later that day, a prison guard entered the yard and announced loudly, “Pastors, you are now going home.” Bail had finally been granted. The announcement was met with mixed emotions — surprise, joy, and sober reflection.

The dominant feeling among the missionaries was not excitement over release, but gratitude for what God had done. They reflected on the journey — the arrest, the chains, the cells, the resistance, the threats, the temptation to leave early, and the souls saved. There was even a quiet desire to remain longer and see more of what God was doing.

As they prepared to leave, it was clear that something lasting had been established. The prison was no longer the same. Prayer had become normal. Repentance had taken root. Peace had replaced violence. Many inmates had encountered Christ.

Captain’s New Year prophecy for 2024 was fulfilled in full:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” — John 21:18–19

They had been carried to a place they did not choose, yet through obedience, the name of God was glorified.