By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Gweru — A self-proclaimed prophetess and her eight followers have been taken into custody in connection with the death of a woman who reportedly drank a concoction given to her during a healing ritual.
Micky Chuma (54) of Mbizo in Kwekwe died on June 18 after consuming a mixture supplied by Charity Mafirowanda and her followers in the gold mining town.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and police investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to reports, Chuma, whose husband suffers from mental health challenges, visited a shrine seeking prayers for her ailments. There, she was allegedly handed a concoction made of opaque beer mixed with snuff, which she was told would exorcise evil spirits.
Tragically, after drinking the mixture, Chuma reportedly went into a trance while congregants poured water over her body in an attempt to “exorcise” the spirits.
Police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko explained that the group then attempted to warm her by placing her near a fire before she unexpectedly passed away.
“In an effort to create a different narrative, the group took her body to her home, laid it on her bed, and covered it with blankets,” Inspector Mahoko said.
The body was later discovered by Tafadzwa Chemedza Matikiti, who was doing household chores at the home and noticed that Chuma was unresponsive.
Following the discovery, Matikiti reported the incident to Garandichauya Police Station in Mbizo 3, leading to the arrest of Mafirowanda and seven of her followers: Talent Khumalo, Bongani Paraffin, Admire Makota, Ronald Mandiedza, Margaret Zireba, Lyton Ndlovu, Arnold Mashiri, and Pauline Banda. The nine suspects are currently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations.