Zimbabwe sect leader accused of child abuse is denied bail

Ishmael Chokurongerwa who the Zimbabwean police claim is the leader of a religious sect and was arrested for suspected criminal activities including "abuse of minors", arrives at Norton Magistrates court for bail hearing in Norton, 60km west of the capital Harare, Zimbabwe March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Philimon Bulawayo

NORTON, Zimbabwe (Reuters) - The leader of a religious sect in Zimbabwe was denied bail on Tuesday after being arrested last week for suspected child abuse when police found 251 minors working on his farm and 16 graves.

Ishmael Chokurongerwa, 56, described by police as a "self-styled prophet" appeared in court in the town of Norton near the capital Harare on Tuesday along with seven of his church members who also face charges. They were not asked to plead.