Sangoma, 80, shot dead at his home by man purporting to be a police detective
Limpopo police have launched a manhunt after an 80-year-old traditional healer was shot dead at his home in Nwa-Khuwani village near Giyani.
Image: File
An 80-year-old traditional healer was shot dead at his home in Nwa-Khuwani village outside Giyani after being lured outside by a man posing as a police detective, Limpopo police said on Monday.
The fatal shooting occurred late on Saturday night at about 11.45 pm.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, officers were alerted to a murder at the village and rushed to the scene, where they found the victim lying on his back near the gate of his home.
“On arrival, police found the deceased’s son, who pointed out his father’s body next to the gate,” Ledwaba said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the elderly man and his son had been asleep when they heard a motor vehicle hooting outside their house. The son went outside 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.
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.
Police have launched a manhunt for the unknown 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, their nearest police station, or submit information via the My SAPS App.
Police investigations are continuing.
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