Suspected witch (78) hacked to death in front of grandchildren

The family of a murdered grandmother accused of witchcraft have fled their home in Ntsimbini village near Bizana.

Ntombizodwa Toto-Madikizela (78) was axed to death in front of her grandchildren last month and on Tuesday this week her family, including 13 children, fled the village after their homestead was torched.

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According to Inkosi Nobomi Madikizela, the grandmother was one of 30 people killed in witchcraft-related incidents in the village since 2016.

“The victims include 16 women who were all accused of witchcraft and hacked to death, some in front of their children.”

Family member Nolwazi Madikizela said they were still reeling from the murder when they awoke to discover that some of their houses had been torched.

“Where must we go? What have we done to deserve this pain? asked the distraught woman.

According to the family, nearby relatives were reluctant to take them in as they too feared becoming victims.

Villager, Lubabalo Madikizela said the community needed all the help they could get to dispel the myths about witchcraft.

“We need law enforcement to act swiftly and harshly on those found guilty of this act. We also are calling for government to educate our people on the myths about witchcraft because in most cases it’s due to ignorance,” he said.

Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Siphokazi Mani-Lusithi said they were planning to visit Bizana next week to educate communities about their rights and to create awareness of conditions which may affect elderly people and which could lead to them being identified as witches.

SAPS spokesman Captain Khaya Tonjeni said at least seven cases had been opened.

“The cases are either awaiting the next court appearance dates or awaiting a decision at the magistrates court. Some are still under investigation,” he said.

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