Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro in KADOMA
A 28-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday after allegedly killing his father in a brutal attack over witchcraft accusations.
Talent Chirongoma had reportedly been drinking beer with his friend, Tichawona Ndlovu (44) at Mugwachari Shopping Centre in Chegutu before heading to his father’s homestead.
Upon arrival, they found his father, Tinos Chirongoma (86) with members of the Apostolic Church (Mwazha), who were inviting him to their congregation.
Talent confronted the church members, questioning why they were speaking to a “witch” and the congregants fled in fear.
Tichawona attempted to intervene and stop Talent from attacking the church members but was struck in the face and on the thigh with a log, rendering him unconscious.
In a fit of rage, Talent then turned on his father, beating him with logs. He also struck him 10 times in the head and both legs with an axe, resulting in his immediate death.
The horrific attack happened while Talent’s ailing wife watched helplessly.
According to a neighbour, Talent had been accusing his father of causing him to suffer erectile dysfunction.
“Talent has clashed with his father multiple times over these witchcraft claims,” the neighbour said.
“He has separated from three wives due to his issues, and some faith healers convinced him that his father was behind his problems.
“He also believed his father was responsible for his mother’s illness.”
The neighbour said Talent, misled by faith healers, had become a threat to anyone attempting to counsel him.
Tinashe Magura lodged a police report at Eiffel Flats Police Station, leading to Talent’s arrest.
Tinos Chirongoma suffered severe injuries, including a deep cut on the back of his head, one above his right knee, five deep cuts on his right leg, one on his left ankle, and another on his left thigh.
He also had a cut on his left palm. Ndlovu was rushed to Kadoma General Hospital, while Tinos’ body was taken to the same hospital’s mortuary, where it is awaiting a post-mortem.
