TWO Epworth self-styled prophets are facing culpable homicide charges after a concoction they prepared allegedly led to the death of a toddler. Mutsvene Makaya (46) and Ndakaziva Mamire (39) were not asked to plead when they appeared before Harare magistrate Ms Anita Tshuma. She remanded them out of custody to December 31.

Ms Tshuma barred the pair from preparing concoctions of any nature. She also ordered them to report once every Friday at Epworth Police Station and to reside at their given addresses until the matter is finalised.

Makaya, when asked if he understood the charges he was facing, conceded making the concoction, but denied using cooking oil as an ingredient. Prosecutor Mr Tungamirirai Chakurira said on November 26, the victim -- aged one year four months -- was taken to the pair for spiritual healing.

He said Makaya and Mamire prepared a concoction of salt, lemon, vinegar, cooking oil and honey which, they made the child drink.

Mr Chakurira alleged that after being given the concoction, the child's health deteriorated and was taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.