Lured from his home: 80-year-old sangoma killed by fake ‘detective’ in Limpopo

A late-night knock that ended a life

In many Limpopo villages, traditional healers are trusted figures, elders whose homes are places of counsel, healing and quiet authority. That sense of safety was shattered in Nwa-Khuwani village outside Giyani when an 80-year-old sangoma was shot dead just steps from his own gate.

Police say the killing happened late on Saturday night, shortly before midnight, after a man posing as a police detective arrived at the family home and asked that the elderly healer be called outside.

He never made it back inside.

‘There’s a case against you’

According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the sangoma and his son had been asleep when they heard a vehicle hooting outside the house. Concerned, the son went out first and found an unknown man standing next to a vehicle parked near the gate.

The man allegedly asked for the elderly healer to come outside, claiming to be a police detective with an “outstanding case” against him.

Moments after the sangoma stepped out, the suspect allegedly opened fire, shooting him several times before speeding off into the night.

When police arrived, the victim’s son pointed them to his father’s body, lying on his back near the gate, a scene that has since left the community reeling.

A community shaken

Emergency services were called, but the sangoma was declared dead at the scene. By Monday morning, word of the killing had spread across Giyani and nearby villages, sparking anger and fear.

On social media, residents expressed outrage at the use of a fake police identity to gain access to the victim. Many questioned how criminals are able to impersonate officers so easily, while others voiced concern for the safety of elders and traditional leaders in rural areas.

For many locals, the murder cuts deeper because sangomas often serve not only as healers, but as cultural anchors people consulted in times of illness, grief and family conflict.

No motive yet, suspect on the run

Police say the motive for the killing remains unclear, and a murder case has been opened. A manhunt is underway for the suspect, who has not yet been identified.

Colonel Ledwaba confirmed that investigations are continuing, and officers are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Police appeal for help

Anyone who may have seen the suspect or has information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact:

• Investigating officer: Sergeant Michel Shivuri on 082 729 0351

• Crime Stop: 08600 10111

• Their nearest police station

• Or submit tips via the My SAPS App

As the search continues, a family mourns an elder lost under tragic and violent circumstances and a community is left grappling with how trust was exploited in the dead of night.

{Source: IOL}

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