Wealthy Malawi pastor, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri who is the leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church, has been arrested alongside his wife for fraud in South Africa.

The church’s External Relations Manager, Maynard Manyowa posted a statement on Bushiri’s official Facebook account informing his members of the arrest.

According to the post, Bushiri and his wife Mary were arrested at a hotel in Rustenburg this morning.

Wealthy Malawi pastor Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and wife arrested for fraud in South Africa

The Hawks confirmed the arrest, stating the following in a press statement:

"The Hawks’ case against the pair, concerns alleged offences of fraud, money laundering and contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. (POCA), committed from 2015, in relation to Exchange Control Regulations related to foreign currency in an amount of 1 147 200 USD.

Wealthy Malawi pastor Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and wife arrested for fraud in South Africa

The couple who run several business enterprises in South Africa and abroad are expected to appear before the Pretoria Commercial Crime Court on Monday."

Prophet Shepherd is well known for living a flamboyant lifestyle including buying expensive luxury cars.