UPDATE: Community uproar after two arrested for sangoma attempted murder
The two accused, aged 38 and 26, made their first appearance in court.
About 100 Tshawini residents marched outside the KwaDukuza magistrates court this morning (Thursday) demanding the release of two men arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a 56-year-old sangoma, who was almost burnt alive for “witchcraft”.
The men, aged 38 and 26, made their first appearance in court today.
Also read: KwaDukuza police under siege amid witchcraft allegations
The sangoma was accused of murdering a 12-year-old child.
Apparently the child died calling the sangoma’s name, saying “I don’t want to come with you,” which was taken as a sign that the boy’s soul had been captured by the sangoma.
It is reported that the boy died on the way to a traditional healer who was asked to rescue him.
Traditionally a sangoma uses their spiritual connection with the ancestors (a diviner), while a ‘traditional healer’ makes medicines from plants (herbalist).
Illness is believed to be caused by witchcraft, pollution (contact with impure objects or occurrences) or through neglect of the ancestors.
Also read: Umvoti toll office burns, temporary workers assaulted
After the incident, the community burnt the sangoma’s house and five cars that were parked in her yard.
A case of attempted murder was opened at KwaDukuza police station and two men were arrested.
Residents have been protesting outside the KwaDukuza police station, and closed the R102 with burning tyres, trees and rubbish skips on Monday and Tuesday.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.
Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
