THE Marondera District COVID-19 taskforce on Wednesday
besieged a Johane Marange apostolic shrine before destroying the tents and
ordering the inhabitants to return to their homes.
The shrine, belonging to Ezekiel Chikoto (35), is situated
in the Masomera area, about 25km from Marondera Town.
The taskforce destroyed 43 tents before ordering those who
were at the shrine, including expecting mothers to leave.
There were about 110 people at the shrine with 66 of them
being the family of the sect leader. Chikoto has 30 wives and 23 children.
Addressing the sect members during the raid, Marondera
District Development Coordinator (DDC) Clemence Masawi, who is the chairperson
of the taskforce said those being evicted can only return after the pandemic.
“We are here because of this pandemic and we are saying, go
back to your homes. We will only allow the family to remain. Those remaining
here are advised to practice social distancing among other hygienic rules. Once
the pandemic is over, those who need spiritual assistance will always come
back,” said Masawi.
The demolitions were effected with the assistance of the
police. Mashonaland East Province has recorded five COVID-19 cases with four
victims already recovered. Apostolic sects are traditionally known for shunning modern
health practices. Newsday
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