Man dies after assault over witchcraft

GOKWE – A 59-year-old man succumbed to injuries sustain during an assault over witchcraft
accusations.

The man, Guster Sikadongwe of village Sialumbe under Chief Simchembu spent almost a month
fighting for his life after the attack.

Sikadongwe was assaulted September 28, and died on October 21.

According to the police, circumstances are that Sikandongwe and his alleged attacker Bvunzai
Siachilimba (32) met and had a misunderstanding after the latter accused the former of being a
witch.

“Siachilimba then struck Gasta Sikadongwe on the head with an empty beer bottle and he fell
down,” Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said.

“He went on to seat on top of Sikadongwe and further assaulted him with fists.

“Sikadongwe became unconscious and was ferried to Gokwe South District Hospital where he was
treated and discharged.”

The police spokesperson said Sikadongwe’s condition deteriorated leading to his death on October
21.

Siachilimba was arrested and investigations are underway.

Inspector Mahoko reminded the public that it is a crime to accuse anyone of witchcraft.

He said in the event of a misunderstanding, the public should consider dialogue before resorting to
violence.

Meanwhile, a 27-year-old man is admitted at Zvishavane District Hospital after he was brutally
stabbed by his fiancé’s ex-husband on October 28 in Mandava High Density Suburb.

Insp Mahoko said on the fateful night, the complainant and his girlfriend were in his house when
Tafadzwa Ganyawa (27) joined them.

“A misunderstanding arose, which ended with the latter stabbing the complainant with a knife.
“Ganyawa was apprehended by members of the public who handed him over to the Police,” Insp
Mahoko said.

The complainant sustained serious injuries during the arrest.
“Both the suspect and the complainant are currently admitted to Zvishavane District hospital where
they are receiving treatment.”