On 5 July, the community of Zwelethemba was shaken by a harrowing incident involving Siyakholwa Zweni (25) from New Mandela Square. Held captive by eight young men from Magwaleni, the attackers allegedly targeted Zweni for his body parts due to his albinism.
Albinism is a genetic condition characterised by a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair and eyes, resulting in very light colouring and a heightened susceptibility to sunburn and skin cancer. Aside fro myriad health chsallenges, Individuals with albinism often face significant social ostracism because of their condition.
Tragically, people with albinism are often subjected to discrimination, violence and superstition. Some falsely believe that their body parts possess magical properties, leading to brutal attacks and even murders. This deeply ingrained stigma not only endangers lives but also perpetuates social isolation and psychological trauma for those living with albinism.
Zweni related his ordeal with visible distress: “The incident occurred around 12:00, when I was returning from Shoprite after withdrawing money. My captors took me at gunpoint and put me in their shack, and forcibly made me smoke tik (crystal meth).” The captors took his money, cellphone and bank card, sparking a violent disagreement among them about whether to release him or proceed with their gruesome plan.
“They fought over whether they should release me or not. One said, ‘We already took his money; we should let him go.’” Despite his fear and trauma, Zweni bravely reported the incident to the police. “I know them. I don’t feel safe; I’m scared even to walk alone.”
In a show of solidarity and outrage, community members of Magwaleni destroyed the shack where Zweni was held on learning of the incident. “We grew up with myths that when you see an albino you see someone whose body parts can cure any sickness” said community member Bridget Siyolo.
“My fear is that we are raising kids with the same mentality. What happened to Siyakholwa is very sad.
“We cannot sit back and watch; we need to raise awareness and not dehumanise albinos, because they are just as human as we are.” A case had been opened, but police were unavailable for comment.
