London, UK — Authorities have shut down three Zimbabwean Masowe apostolic churches operating illegally in the United Kingdom, citing violations of public safety laws and failure to obtain the required licenses. The churches, based in Manchester, Birmingham, and London, had been conducting services in public parks and rented community halls without proper authorization or compliance with local council regulations.
In Manchester, the church was led by Madzibaba Thomas Phiri, who allegedly held large gatherings weekly in a warehouse without fire safety certifications or insurance. Meanwhile, in Birmingham, Madzibaba John Kamhuka was found leading all-night prayer sessions in a residential basement, disturbing neighbors and ignoring previous warnings from city officials. The London branch, headed by Madzibaba Stephens, reportedly converted a disused retail space into a makeshift shrine, which inspectors deemed “hazardous and unsanitary.”
All three church leaders have been summoned to appear in court later this month and could face multiple charges, including operating an unlicensed place of worship, public nuisance, and health and safety violations. A spokesperson for the UK Home Office confirmed investigations are ongoing and warned other unregistered religious groups to comply with local laws or risk similar action. Community leaders have urged followers to remain calm, while some congregants accuse the government of targeting African faith groups unfairly.
The closures have stirred heated debate within the Zimbabwean diaspora, with some praising the enforcement of the law, while others see it as an attack on cultural and religious expression. A formal statement from the churches is expected after the initial court appearance.
