Fake ‘Police Detective’ Guns Down 80-Year-Old Sangoma At His Gate

An 80-year-old traditional healer has been shot dead at his home in Nwa-Khuwani village outside Giyani after being lured outside by a man claiming to be a police detective.

The fatal shooting occurred late on Saturday night at approximately 11:45pm, Limpopo police confirmed on Monday.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers responded to reports of a murder and found the victim lying near the gate of his home.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Canada Joins US In Raising Red Flag Over South Africa Travel Safety

“On arrival, police found the deceased’s son, who pointed out his father’s body next to the gate,” Ledwaba said.

Suspect Claimed There Was a Case Against the Sangoma Victim

Preliminary investigations revealed that the elderly man and his son had been asleep when they heard a vehicle hooting outside their home.

The son went out to investigate and found an unknown man standing next to a vehicle parked near the gate.

“The suspect requested that the victim be called outside. When the elderly man arrived, the suspect introduced himself as a police detective and claimed there was an outstanding case against the victim,” Ledwaba said.

Moments later, the suspect allegedly opened fire, shooting the elderly man multiple times before fleeing the scene in the vehicle.

Manhunt Launched as Police Appeal for Information

Emergency medical services were called to the scene, but the victim was declared dead on arrival.

“The motive for the killing is unknown at this stage, and a case of murder has been opened for further investigation,” Ledwaba said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Mother Arrested After Abandoned Newborn Found Under Tree Near Theunissen

Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect and are appealing to members of the public for assistance.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Michel Shivuri, on 082 729 0351, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, visit their nearest police station, or submit tips via the My SAPS App.

Police investigations are continuing.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky