A 25-year-old Zimbabwean man named Takudzwa Mugariri is currently being sought by the police after allegedly assaulting and killing his 94-year-old grandmother, Easther Marozva accusing her of witchcraft. The incident took place in Marozva Village, Chief Banga, Shurugwi. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the suspect accused his grandmother of practising witchcraft and proceeded to burn her clothes before attacking her with a log.
A police report seen by Pindula News says the victim was found with multiple wounds on her body. Read the police report:
Police in Gweru are appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Takudzwa Mugariri (25) who is being sought in connection with a case of murder in which his grandmother, Easther Marozva (94) died at Marozva Village, Chief Banga, Shurugwi on 03/02/24. The suspect had accused the victim of witchcraft before burning her clothes and assaulting her with a log. The victim was found with multiple wounds all over the body.
The police are urging anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to report to the nearest police station.
Witchcraft is still prevalent in rural areas of Zimbabwe, and it is not uncommon for local reports or newspaper stories about such practices to surface almost every week. In 2006, the government acknowledged the existence of supernatural powers but stated that the use of magic to harm others is prohibited.
Many Zimbabweans, especially those who grow up in rural areas, find it challenging to dismiss the belief in witchcraft. Gokwe, a district known for cotton production in the Midlands province, has gained notoriety for its association with witchcraft and the occult. In terms of reported cases, Gokwe could be considered a contender for the “Witchcraft Order of Merit,” along with the alleged lightning-makers of Chipinge.
#hmetroA 25-year-old Zimbabwean man is wanted by the police for allegedly killing his 94-year-old grandmother in Marozva Village, Chief Banga, Shurugwi accusing her of witchcraft.
He burnt her clothes and attacked her with a log. The victim was found with multiple wounds.
Witchcraft beliefs persist in rural Zimbabwe, despite the country's predominantly Christian population.
