Eastern Cape Haunted by Brutal Killings of Women Accused of Witchcraft
Image Source: via SABC News
Published by Everything ZA News
LUSIKISIKI, South Africa – A wave of brutal killings targeting elderly women in the rural Eastern Cape village of KwaThahle has cast a dark shadow over the community. The victims, accused of practicing witchcraft, have been subjected to horrific violence, leaving survivors traumatized and demanding justice.
The killings, which began in 2015, have claimed the lives of at least 28 women, including children. In a recent incident, a 70-year-old woman and her three daughters were hacked to death, their bodies set on fire.
Noncedo Sombaza, who lost her mother in one such attack, described the horrifying scene. “They stoned her to death,” she recounted, “I still don’t understand why.”
Sombaza’s story is not unique. Many survivors, like herself, are grappling with the loss of loved ones and the constant fear that has gripped the community.
“There have been almost 23 women killed since 2015,” said Deputy Minister of Rural Development, Zoleka Capa. “Even young children are not spared.”
Capa has opened her home as a refuge for survivors, highlighting the desperate need for government intervention. “This is a gender-based violence issue that demands an intergovernmental approach,” she stressed. “We need to protect these women and children.”
The lack of accountability adds to the trauma. Despite the ongoing killings, only six arrests have been made. The community is calling for swift action from law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The resurgence of these killings exposes the deep-seated belief in witchcraft that continues to plague rural South Africa. Urgent action is needed to address not only the violence but also the underlying social factors that perpetuate it.
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