Ngcobo police are investigating a case of murder following the brutal killing of a 75-year-old woman at Zadungeni A/A, Luthuthu Locality in Ngcobo yesterday morning, 17 May.

According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, it is alleged that the victim, identified as Nokhansala Sidiki, was taken from her home by certain family members and taken to a nearby stream.

“She was accused of witchcraft, assaulted with a plank, and subsequently drowned,” she said. “Her body was found naked next to the stream with bruises to the head and face, as well as strangulation marks on the neck.”

Gantana added that the suspects who fled the scene remain unknown and no arrests have been made yet.

“The case docket is under investigation by the SAPS Detective Unit. Witness statements are being obtained, and forensic evidence has been collected from the scene.”

Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, condemned this savage act.

“This is a savage and deeply disturbing attack on a vulnerable elderly woman. Accusing someone of witchcraft and taking the law into your own hands is not only illegal but inhuman,” he said.

“We will leave no stone unturned until those responsible are arrested and face the full might of the law. I also call on community leaders to help us uproot this dangerous mob justice mentality. If you know something, speak out, as silence makes you complicit,” remarked Lieutenant General Ncata.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or report anonymously via the MySAPS app. All information will be treated confidentially.