By: Natasha Archary
Self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri reportedly declared tithes from his church as his own wealth in an attempt to gain South African residency.
This, according to the Department of Home Affairs shared that Bushiri and his family did not qualify for permanent residency in SA.
Apart from the churches bank accounts, an aircraft estimated at $1.25 million (R19.4 million) was reportedly used as proof of an investment in 2016.
In 2020, the prophet and his wife fled the country amid charges of fraud and money laundering.
Bushiri was also accused of raping a woman in his congregation when she was still a minor.
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During his extradition case, an internal investigation into Bushiri’s residency application was done. It was found that the Bushiri’s permanent residency was unlawfully granted under the guise of refugee status.
As reported by the Sunday World, there are documentary evidence at the Department of Home Affairs which proves Bushiri was in SA on a visitor’s visa.
Undermining the Immigration Act the prophet was conducting business in the country which should have meant his application was rejected.
The 39-year old Malawian-born prophet gained popularity for his opulent lifestyle and controversial “miracles” which he imparted on his followers.
He was arrested in 2020 by the Hawks for corruption and money laundering and his citizenship in the country was raised.
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