The deceased, identified as Keka Sakala of Tafelansoni Village in Chief Mwangala’s area, was found dead in the early hours of yesterday. His body was discovered about 30 metres from his house and was reportedly surrounded by charms.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba said several items were found near the body, including a tortoise wrapped with a red neck chain, charms wrapped in black cloth, three small white bottles and a small dish containing red liquid.
Mweemba said the body had no visible physical injuries.
He explained that Sakala had previously been accused of practicing witchcraft and of being responsible for the deaths and illnesses of several family members.
According to the family, six witch doctors who were consulted allegedly claimed that Sakala was behind the family’s misfortunes. The accusations resurfaced recently after one of his children reportedly fell ill and began behaving abnormally, with witch doctors again pointing to Sakala.
Mweemba said Sakala denied the accusations and asked for revenge medicine so that whoever was allegedly bewitching his children would die. He reportedly died shortly after taking the medicine.
Police said they do not suspect foul play and have advised the family to proceed with burial arrangements.
