By Christopher Miti
Police in Chadiza District, Eastern Province, are investigating the death of a 63-year-old man of Chief Mwangala’s area, who is alleged to have died under bizarre circumstances.
The deceased, identified as Keka Sakala of Tafelansoni Village, was found dead in the early hours of yesterday. His body, discovered about 30 metres from his house, was surrounded by charms.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba said items found near the body included a tortoise wrapped with a red neck chain, charms wrapped in black linen, three small white bottles, and a small dish filled with red liquid.
Mr. Mweemba noted that the body had no physical injuries. He explained that Sakala had been accused of practicing witchcraft and being behind the deaths and illnesses of several family members.
According to the family, six witch doctors consulted alleged that Sakala was responsible for the misfortunes. Recently, one of his children fell ill and began behaving abnormally, with witch doctors again pointing to Sakala as the cause.
Mr. Mweemba said Sakala denied the accusations and requested revenge medicines so that whoever was bewitching his children should die. He reportedly died shortly after taking the medicines.
Police do not suspect foul play and have advised the family to proceed with burial.
