PEMBA, Zambia — A manhunt is underway in Zambia’s Southern Province after a 49-year-old man, Tyson Matimba, allegedly beat his 81-year-old uncle, Edward Hatwiko, to death over accusations of witchcraft.
According to police reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, February 9, 2025, in Chigabwa village, Chief Hamaundu, Pemba district.
Matimba, who had reportedly been blaming Hatwiko for the death of his daughter in July 2024, launched a fatal attack following a heated confrontation.
Fatal Confrontation After Months of Accusations
The police report states that Matimba, after a night of heavy drinking, returned home and resumed his long-standing verbal attacks against Hatwiko, accusing him of using witchcraft to harm his family.
Hearing the insults, Hatwiko, who lived approximately 100 meters away, stepped outside to confront his nephew.
The situation quickly escalated as Matimba allegedly grabbed a pounding stick and began striking the elderly man repeatedly.
A 16-year-old relative, witnessing the assault, rushed to a nearby village to alert community members.
However, by the time they arrived, Hatwiko had succumbed to his injuries.
Responding to the scene, police officers discovered Hatwiko’s lifeless body lying in a pool of blood.
The victim had sustained severe injuries, including a swollen head, a cut on his forehead, and a broken right arm.
Blood was also observed coming from his mouth and nose.
Officers recovered the suspected murder weapon, a broken pounding stick, in Matimba’s kitchen, just eight meters from where Hatwiko’s body was found.
The victim’s body was transported to Pemba Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination, while authorities launched an immediate search for the suspect, who had fled the scene.
Authorities Condemn Witchcraft Allegations
The tragic killing has reignited calls for stronger legal action against individuals who engage in witch hunts.
Advocacy groups have urged authorities to not only bring Matimba to justice but also investigate whether a local diviner may have influenced his belief that his uncle was responsible for his daughter’s death.
Leo Igwe, director of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, in an emailed statement to The Trent on Monday, February 10, 2025, condemned the killing and called for greater public education to dispel harmful beliefs surrounding witchcraft in Zambia.
“The people need to understand that nobody harms or could harm other humans through witchcraft. That no one causes sickness and death using magic,” Igwe stated.
“The police must arrest this suspect, charge him in court, and ensure he answers for his crimes.”
Igwe also urged law enforcement to investigate any spiritual advisors or diviners who might have played a role in fueling the suspect’s beliefs.
“Witch hunts persist because of impunity,” he added. “Witch hunters must know that the long arm of the law and justice will finally catch up with them.”
Police Warn Against Violence Linked to Superstitions
The Zambian police have repeatedly warned against acts of violence linked to witchcraft accusations, a problem that continues to claim lives in some communities.
Commissioner of Police for the Southern Division, Auxensio Daka, issued a statement confirming that a case of murder has been opened and that officers are actively searching for Matimba.
“A manhunt has been launched to bring the culprit to book,” Daka stated, adding that authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the victim.
