Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, Samuel Tiyani Mabunda, was caught on camera performing bizarre rituals at Shepherd Bushiri’s church in Pretoria.
Samuel Mabunda caught on camera performing ‘rituals’ at Bushiri’s church
The footage, which has since gone viral, shows Mabunda engaging in unusual activities during a service.
The 34-year-old footballer-turned-pastor has been associated with Bushiri’s church since his release from Sundowns in 2021.
Mabunda’s involvement in the church has raised eyebrows, particularly given Bushiri’s controversial status.
Mabunda began his football career with Arcadia Shepherds before moving on to play for Black Leopards.
His impressive performances caught the attention of Mamelodi Sundowns, one of South Africa’s premier football clubs, where he enjoyed a significant part of his career.
After his release from Mamelodi Sundowns in August 2021, Mabunda transitioned into a surprising new role as a pastor at Shepherd Bushiri’s church in Pretoria.
The self-proclaimed prophet and his wife, Mary, are wanted in South Africa on charges related to fraud and money laundering.
Bushiri extradition: What is the latest?
The extradition case of Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, has seen several delays.
The couple, who fled to Malawi after being granted bail in South Africa, face charges involving the illicit movement of R102 million.
Despite attempts to flee to Kenya, Malawian authorities intercepted them, preventing their escape.
In the latest court proceedings, lead defence lawyer Wapona Kita has been leading the cross-examination of South African witnesses.
During the recent cross-examination, it was revealed that some rape cases against Bushiri in South Africa were withdrawn in 2018.
Additionally, discrepancies in a KPMG report were brought up, suggesting that funds allegedly stolen from church members did not transfer to Bushiri’s entities.
The defence also challenged a forgery charge related to an airplane purchase, arguing that the key witness had died, leaving the prosecution without a competent witness.
The court adjourned the case for the state to re-examine their witness, with proceedings set to continue.