Online Reporter
Ethel Ncube
A 72-YEAR-OLD Lupane grandmother is fighting for her life at Mpilo Central Hospital after her grandson allegedly hacked her with an axe, doused her in paraffin and set her alight, accusing her of witchcraft.
The shocking attack, which occurred in Matama Village, has left the community stunned and the family torn apart.
Sibongiseni Mpofu (22), a gold panner from Filabusi, allegedly attacked Christine Ncube, claiming she was behind his gold panning failures. Witnesses said he appeared calm as he approached her homestead, pretending to ask for cooking oil, before turning violent.
“She was lighting her morning fire when he came,” said traumatised neighbour, Siphiwe Ndlovu. “He sat down like all was normal, then suddenly struck her on the head with an axe, poured paraffin on her and lit a match.”
Flames engulfed her body as Mpofu allegedly walked away as if nothing had happened.
Ncube’s screams alerted neighbours, who found her burning. They doused the flames with water and rushed her to St Luke’s Hospital before she was transferred to Mpilo due to the severity of her injuries.
Court documents reveal the May 17 attack was premeditated. After the assault, Mpofu reportedly called his younger brother, telling him: “I’ve killed the old woman and I want to kill myself.” The brother has not yet been located.
Mpofu has since been arrested and appeared in Lupane Magistrates’ Court.
He was remanded in custody to 3 June, with the matter set to be heard at Hwange Regional Court.
Hospital sources say Gogo Ncube sustained third-degree burns to the head and face, as well as severe head trauma.
“She can’t speak,” said a nurse. “She’s on 24-hour monitoring. It’s a miracle she’s alive.”
Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda, confirmed the incident. “This is a disturbing case.
The victim was set alight over unfounded witchcraft accusations. We urge communities to use peaceful methods, consult elders, police or spiritual leaders, not violence.”
The brutal incident has reignited debate over rural witchcraft suspicions and mental health. “People are killing elders based on dreams and gossip,” said a local headman. “It’s barbaric.”
Now, Ncube’s devastated family is appealing for help from the public to cover medical expenses.
“We humbly request assistance from well-wishers to support Gogo’s critical treatment,” said her daughter, Sheron Ncube. “The attack has left us emotionally and financially broken. She’s in a terrible state. Any help would mean the world.”
Those willing to help can contact Sheron on 0776 198 154 or B. Ncube on 0779 368 847/ 0712 535 267.
B-METRO VERDICT: THE REAL EVIL IS IGNORANCE
This isn’t the Middle Ages. Burning “witches” has no place in modern Zimbabwe. Gogo Ncube’s suffering is a crime — and a tragedy born of fear and ignorance. Until communities stop blaming old women for every misfortune, more innocent blood will be spilled.
