POLICE in Matabeleland South have accused traditional leaders of forcing villagers to attend cleansing ceremonies conducted by self-proclaimed witch hunters popularly known as tsikamutandas.
Police made the claims after being petitioned by human rights watchdog, Coalition for Citizens Advocates (COCA) over tsikamutandas fleecing villagers of their livestock and properties during their cleansing ceremonies.
Responding to the petition, Police Assistant Commissioner Administration one E Phiri in a letter dated September 24 singled out village heads for allegedly forcing villagers to participate in the cleansing ceremonies.
“According to our investigations, it is the village heads who were forcing villagers to attend these ritual ceremonies. It seems village heads did not consult villagers for their views though some villagers showed mixed feelings on the presence of tsikamutandas,” Phiri wrote.
Phiri confirmed that villagers were being cheated of their livestock and properties after being falsely accused of being witches.
“However, as police, we are investigating the matter with a view to arrest the tsikamutandas. We had already started awareness campaigns conscientising the community to be aware of trickery magic by the tsikamtandas. Moreover, the local traditional leadership has been discouraged from forcing community members to attend similar events.
“We would like to thank you for bringing this matter to the attention of this office and always feel free to contact us in future for any matter.”
The cunning tsikamutandas often convince villagers that anyone who advocates for their expulsion from communities will be trying to avoid being exposed as a witch or wizard.
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Under Zimbabwean law, it is illegal to accuse someone of being a witch or wizard.
In response, Coca secretary Wilbert Ndiweni in a letter dated October 1 applauded police for taking action to stop the illegal cleansing ceremonies.
“We welcome your decision to pursue the tsikamutandas. The people who harboured tsikamutandas know where they are right now. The same Headmen and Village heads conspired in buying those livestock at cheap prices and helping in clearing the recovered cattle under fraudulent circumstances,” Ndiweni wrote.
Notorious for preying on superstitious villagers, tsikamutandas have destroyed families and divided communities after claiming to expose witches. They demand livestock, while claiming to rid communities of goblins.
To perform their duties, the tsikamutandas are paid hefty amounts, mostly in the form of livestock — chicken, goats and cattle.
