Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
A 25-YEAR-OLD man who allegedly assaulted a granny (73) before sexually attacking her, accusing her of bewitching villagers, has appeared in court.
Bhekimpilo Luphahla (25), a self-styled tsikamutanda, appeared in court before Bulawayo regional magistrate Mr Mark Dzira yesterday, charged with assault and rape.
Luphahla was not asked to plead and spoke only to confirm the allegations levelled against him.
He was remanded in custody until 19 February 2026.
Prosecuting, Nkanyezi Xaba told the court that on 10 January this year shortly after 6PM, Luphahla confronted the grandmother, who cannot be named for ethical reasons, at her home in Makokomba Village, Nyamandlovu. He hurled unprintable insults at her, accusing her of bewitching villagers.
Luphahla, the court heard stormed into her bedroom hut while branding her a witch who torments community members in Makokomba village.
“The accused insulted the complainant, saying: ‘…ngifuna ukutshaya yenalo umthakathi omkhulu weMakokomba qede ngim . . .”
“The accused picked up a chair and struck the complainant once on the stomach. He then picked up a metal rod and struck her once on the chest, causing her to fall to the ground.
“The complainant sustained a swollen chest and stomach. While she was still on the ground, the accused carried out the sickening attack,” said Xaba.
The grandmother screamed for help, prompting her daughter to rush to the bedroom. Upon arrival, she struck Luphahla with a broom.
He attempted to flee, but the daughter screamed, alerting neighbours who rushed to the scene, caught him while he was trying to run away, and handed him to the police.
The following day, the complainant was rushed to the hospital.
