Members of the Enlighten Christian Gathering Church led by fraud and money laundering accused "Prophet" Shepherd Bushiri and his wife "Prophetess" Mary ahead of their court appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Monday. Pictures and videos: Oupa Mokoena/ African News Agency ( ANA )
The fraud and money laundering case against self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary has been postponed.
The pair appeared briefly in the Specialised Crimes Court on Thursday and their case was postponed to November 29 to allow for the state to submit their representations.
The Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) leader and his wife were arrested in February on charges fraud, money laundering, and contravening the Provision of the Organised Crimes Act for crimes committed in 2015.
The couple was granted bail under conditions that they hand over their travel documents after spending nights behind bars following their arrest at Sparkling Waters Resort in Rustenburg, in North West.
Visagie Street between Thabo Sehume and Paul Kruger street are blocked due to a large number of Bushiri supporters.
ECG issued a statement which they confirmed Bushiri’s appearance in court on Thursday morning.
“We are deeply moved by the displays of immense levels of support and compassion from all over South Africa as a country, SADC region and, indeed, the whole world. We appreciate the kind words of encouragement, the prayers and warm thoughts.
“However, we would like to advise the public and, most importantly, members of the media that court appearance is a matter which is sub judice, neither the communications director Ephraim Nyondo, the external media relations nor the head of legal services Terrance Baloyi in their different capacities as spokesperson of the prophet will be offering interviews, comments, or divulging any information.
“We urge the church to remain steadfast and committed in prayer. Otherwise, there will be no further update updates until further notice.”
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