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Police in Western Province have launched investigations into an incident where a 68-year-old woman was publicly accused of practicing witchcraft during a traditional healing ceremony in Kangongo Village, Namatindi Area of Kalabo District.
The matter was officially reported to Kalabo Police Station on Wednesday, 9th September 2026, at 09:00 hours by the victim herself, according to Western Division Commissioner of Police Godfrey Mwanza.
In a statement issued in Mongu District of Western Province on Thursday, Mwanza said the incident occurred on Monday, September 7, 2026, at around 15:00 hours.
He said a local traditional leader, Chief Simioti, had invited a self-proclaimed traditional doctor to conduct a spiritual cleansing ritual for his granddaughter, who suffers from epilepsy.
“During the public gathering, the practitioner allegedly pointed to the 68-year-old woman, accusing her of possessing witchcraft charms and being responsible for illness and deaths in the village,” Mwanza said.
He said the the accusation reportedly incited members of the community who had gathered for the ceremony and the elderly woman was verbally harassed and threatened by those present.
Following the report, officers were dispatched to Kangongo Village to secure the area and apprehend the perpetrator, however, the traditional doctor had fled before police arrival.
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Police confiscated divining instruments left at the scene, which have been secured as evidence.
“Chief Simioti was interviewed regarding his role in organizing the event. He has been directed to report back to Kalabo Police Station on Thursday, 10th September 2026 to assist with investigations,” Mwanza said.
He condemned the incident and warned against illegal witch-finding activities.
“The Zambia Police Service strongly condemns all forms of illegal witch-finding activities which violate the laws of Zambia and put vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly, at risk of mob violence,” Mwanza said.
He reminded the public that naming any person as a witch was a criminal offence under the Witchcraft Act.
A manhunt is currently underway to trace and arrest the fugitive suspect, identified as the traditional doctor who conducted the ceremony.
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