Self-proclaimed Mbizo prophet Leeroy Shiri is facing a major escalation in his legal troubles after a murder charge was added to his existing domestic violence case during a court appearance on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Shiri, who leads the Spring of Living Waters Church in Mbizo 1, was already in custody following allegations that he assaulted his wife, Trish Samantha Maphosa, while she was eight months pregnant.
According to medical reports presented in court, the alleged physical assault triggered premature labour, leading to the birth of an infant who sadly died just hours after delivery. Prosecutors argue that the actions of the religious leader directly contributed to the death of the newborn, which led to the addition of the murder charge.
The presiding magistrate denied Shiri bail, ordering that he remain in remand prison while investigations and legal proceedings continue.
Court records also reveal that this is not the first time Shiri has faced legal consequences for violent behaviour. In 2024, he was convicted of assaulting a member of his own congregation over accusations of gossip. At the time, he received a 12-month jail sentence that was later commuted to community service, on the condition that he would not commit another similar offence within a five-year period.
Legal experts say that this previous conviction and the breach of sentencing conditions could weigh heavily against him as the current case progresses.
Shiri is expected to return to court on March 23, 2026, where further proceedings will take place as investigators continue gathering evidence relating to the alleged domestic assault and the tragic death of the infant.
