Pythons inyanga caged. . . a�?I use python skins and dagga for healing purposesa��

. Danisa Masuku
How about a python skin to fight off your enemies and dagga to help cure HIV-related illnesses?

Thata��s the official defence line of a Jotsholo-based traditional healer Philemon Gumpo (75) who upon a search by police was found in possession of 45 grammes of dagga and two python snakeskins.

Gumbo said for almost a decade, python skins have helped him survive in a a�?witchcrafta�? laden profession.

a�?I usually use python skins to keep away evil spirits that used to affect my wife. I have been using the skins for the past nine years. I also use the skins to strengthen my healing powers because this industry is dangerous. Competitors may cast an attacking spirit that may badly affect my career and business,a�? he said.

The police stumbled on the skins by chance since they were looking for dagga. He also denied dealing in the illicit drug which he said is administered to his HIV patients.

a�?I use it (dagga) with concoctions that I give to my clients who would be suffering from HIV and it has helped in curing severe HIV symptoms,a�? he said.

Unfortunately, he couldna��t escape both charges of possession and cultivation of dangerous drugs and contravening section 45 as read with section 128 of the Parks and Wildlife Act.

He was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment with three years suspended on condition that he does not commit a similar offence within a period of five years.