Mpindeni Ncube, a 44-year-old prophet from Masendu Village in Zimbabwe, was once admired for his spiritual guidance. However, his good reputation came crashing down after he was sentenced to six months in prison for armed robbery.

The incident happened on September 27, 2024, near Ndiweni Business Centre in Plumtree. Ncube ambushed a man named Siyabulela Mabhena and threatened him with a knife. Ncube demanded Mabhena’s belongings, and when Mabhena resisted, Ncube took his phone, a Samsung Grand Prime, worth about US$50.

After the robbery, Mabhena ran back to the business centre, where he got help from local people. Together, they formed a search party and quickly found Ncube hiding in a nearby area. They recovered both the stolen phone and the knife used in the crime.

When Ncube appeared in court, he pleaded guilty and explained why he committed the robbery. He said he had just returned from Botswana, where he had provided spiritual services but wasn’t paid. Stranded and without any money for his trip home, Ncube claimed he was desperate and saw no other option but to rob Mabhena.

The court was shocked by Ncube’s confession, especially since he was known as a man of faith. Many couldn’t understand how a spiritual leader could commit such an act. His story shows how difficult situations can sometimes push people to make poor decisions, even those who are well-respected.

Magistrate Joshua Nembaware sentenced Ncube to 12 months in prison but suspended half of the sentence, meaning Ncube will only serve six months if he behaves well. The case highlights how financial desperation can drive people to do things they would never otherwise consider.