Debel, Lebanon – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has sentenced two soldiers to 30 days of military detention after one of them was filmed striking a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon. The military said both soldiers, one who carried out the act and another who photographed it, will also be removed from combat duty following an internal inquiry. The individuals have not been publicly identified.

RUSAPE – A 62-year-old apostolic sect evangelist from Makoni has been convicted of sexually abusing a pregnant 17-year-old congregant, in a case that has reignited concerns over abuse of authority within religious communities. The accused, Russia Muradzikwa, appeared before Rusape provincial magistrate Tendai Mahwe, facing a charge of having sexual intercourse with a young person.

HARARE – Tensions are rising at the Gospel of God Church International (1932) headquarters in Gandanzara, Makoni District, after more than 20 armed youths blocked access to the grave of the church’s founder, Johanne Masowe. The group, reportedly wielding machetes, knobkerries, and other weapons, has set up a vigil at the shrine entrance, preventing officials and family members from proceeding with a court-approved exhumation.