(Picture for illustrative purposes)
Two suspects have been arrested in the Twingi area of Samfya District in Luapula Province following the brutal mob killing of a 59-year-old man accused of practicing witchcraft.
The victim, identified as Chonde Chitumbo Chabu, died on the spot on May 16, 2026, after an angry mob allegedly attacked him using sticks and stones.
Following the attack, the mob reportedly destroyed the deceased’s house, while a house belonging to his sister was set ablaze.
According to reports, the incident stemmed from the disappearance of a 12-year-old boy from Lusenga Village.
On May 15, 2026, around 10:00 hours, the boy had gone fishing with his elder sister at the Nyonga River when he was allegedly attacked and dragged underwater by a crocodile.
Community members immediately launched a search operation, but the boy could not be found.
During this period, the family is said to have consulted a witch finder, who allegedly linked the boy’s disappearance to Mr. Chabu ( now deceased).
The accusation heightened tensions within the community and ultimately triggered the mob attack that claimed his life.
Authorities have since launched investigations into the incident.
(Picture for illustrative purposes)
By Kalombe Kapambwe
