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Media Statement DUNDEE – 2 July 2024 The Umzinyathi District Commissioner, Major General Francis Slambert has welcomed the sentence by Greytown Regional Court of three accused, Philisiwe Zuma (33), Thubelihle Shezi(24) and Mazwi Lembethe(23) for a double murder and arson of two female victims, a mother (65) and a daughter (28) , that occurred at Ematimatolo policing precinct in August 2023. In August 2023, swift response from Ematimatolo SAPS after an arson complaint was reported. On arrival at the scene, police found a house burnt to ashes, they further found two burnt bodies inside the house. An initial investigation was conducted by Detective Sergeant Siyabonga Manzini of Ematimatolo SAPS, a well-experienced detective, who managed to uncover what had happened. The suspects were arrested immediately. According to information, the deceased were attacked while they were both in their homestead together with their six grandchildren. They were accused of witchcraft in the area. The children were taken out of the house leaving the mother and a daughter, inside the burning house. Detectives conducted the investigation and ensured that the docket was trial ready. On Wednesday, 26 June 2024 three of the four accused were found guilty and sentenced to: Count 1: Arson five years direct imprisonment Count 2: Murder – life sentence. They were further declared unfit to possess firearms. Investigation continues as the fourth accused is still attending court.
The District Commissioner Major General Francis Slambert said, “The community should understand that in South Africa, accusing someone of witchcraft can have serious legal consequences, according to Witchcraft Act of 1957 which criminalizes accusations of witchcraft.”
Enquiries:
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