happiness Chikwanha
Blessings Chidakwa
Herald Reporter
Fear and mystery gripped Zhomba High School in Gokwe yesterday, as alleged goblins wreaked havoc, forcing the school to shut down after terrified learners fled for their safety.
Gokwe North District Development Coordinator, Mr. Martin Musakanda, confirmed the incident, saying authorities were assess the situation.
Zhomba High School head Mr Washington Chikunichawa said the disturbances began on Monday with one affected learner, but by Tuesday, eight students seven of them female were reportedly under attack.
“I directed learners to go home as their behaviour suggested they were being attacked by goblins. The district leadership, including chiefs, is meeting today (yesterday) to decide the way forward,” he said.
Gokwe-Kabuyuni legislator Cde Spencer Tshuma said the situation at the school has now become more of a habit than an event.
Legislator Chuma said the school has a history of mysterious occurrences, citing an incident last year when a whirlwind swept away an exam answer sheet, later found about 500 meters away.
“Our Joint Operations Command (JOC) has visited the school. These mysteries are not new to the institution. Several learners have been affected. When I phoned the headmaster, there was just noise in the background.
“Local religious leaders were called to pray for the victims, which brought some stability, but we need a permanent solution,” he said.
A local villager, who requested anonymity, believes traditional cleansing is the only way to resolve the crisis.
“This is not the first time we have seen such things in Gokwe. When schools or homes are disturbed, we consult spirit mediums to identify the source.
“We must follow our traditions and conduct a cleansing ceremony before the situation worsens,” said the source.
A teacher from the school suggested that both science and tradition should be considered in addressing the issue.
“Some of us believe in supernatural forces, while others rely on science. The best approach is to involve both traditional leaders and mental health experts. That way, we cover all possibilities and find the real cause,” said the teacher.
However, another community member dismissed the claims of goblins, attributing the events to psychological distress.
“People are quick to blame witchcraft when there could be other explanations. Mass hysteria happens, especially among students. Maybe they saw something strange, and panic spread.
“We need experts to investigate, not just traditionalists and religious leaders,” said the source.
As of yesterday sources at the school said the situation at Zhomba High School remained tense as authorities deliberated on the next steps.
Online Reporter