Police Renew Search for Apostle Batsirai Java Despite Reported Dropping of Treason Charge
Police have renewed their search for prominent preacher Apostle Batsirai Java, sending four officers to his Tabernacle of Grace Church offices along Samora Machel Avenue on Wednesday. According to Kukurigo, the officers said they had been sent by Chief Superintendent Gladman Chiparaushe, who works in the police Law and Order section. They demanded to see Java but left without meeting him.
Church officials said the officers refused to provide their police force numbers when asked. They also did not produce a search warrant or an arrest warrant. The officials initially refused to open the gate but later allowed the officers in after they insisted that they wanted to see Java.
The latest search comes despite reports that the treason allegation against Java has been dropped. He was previously wanted for questioning over a leaked audio recording containing sensitive claims about businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the country’s political succession. Java has denied being the person speaking in the recording.
According to The Standard, the original case involved four allegations: treason, sharing false information that could harm the State, promoting hatred and undermining the authority of the President. It remains unclear which allegations, if any, are still being pursued.
Police Commissioner Chrispen Charumbira is reportedly overseeing the investigation, while Chiparaushe is said to be directing the latest search. The investigation was previously handled by Chief Superintendent Edmore Runganga, who was reportedly transferred to Bindura after raising questions about the police operations against Java.
The case has also raised questions about the police’s actions. In a report published on 9 August, The Standard quoted national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi as saying he had not received any report showing that Java was under investigation. This came after reports that police had searched Java’s home and church premises while he was outside Zimbabwe.
The Standard also reported allegations that the investigation may have been linked to disagreements involving rival religious leaders. The newspaper cited claims that a politically connected religious figure had raised US$30,000 to pursue Java. There were also allegations that a senior police officer used personal vehicles and fuel coupons during operations against him. These claims have not been independently confirmed.
It remains unclear why police are still searching for Java, who authorised the latest operation and what legal grounds they are using. Police have also not publicly explained the reported removal of the treason allegation or clarified the current status of the case.
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