A disturbing incident has unfolded in the Eastern Cape, where two women have been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of a 75-year-old woman, Nokhansala Sidiki, who was allegedly accused of witchcraft. According to South African Police Service, the victim was taken from her home by certain family members and brought to a nearby stream, where she was assaulted and later killed on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said the victim was accused of witchcraft, assaulted with a plank, and subsequently drowned. Her body was later discovered next to the stream, with visible injuries including bruises to the head and face, as well as strangulation marks on her neck.
Investigation and Arrests
Police have confirmed that the suspects fled the scene immediately after the incident and were initially unknown. However, swift investigations have since led to the arrest of two women, aged 26 and 28. More arrests are imminent, according to Gantana.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, condemned the killing, describing it as “a savage and deeply disturbing attack on a vulnerable elderly woman.” He further warned against mob justice and harmful beliefs driving violent acts in communities, saying: “Accusing someone of witchcraft and taking the law into your own hands is not only illegal but inhuman.”
Community Urged to Assist Police
Ncata urged community members to assist police with information, saying: “If you know something, speak out; silence makes you complicit.” Police said the case is still under investigation, with detectives continuing to gather witness statements and forensic evidence linked to the scene.
For more information on the witchcraft phenomenon and its impact on communities, visit relevant resources. In the meantime, authorities have appealed to the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.
- Two women arrested in connection with the murder
- Victim accused of witchcraft and assaulted
- More arrests imminent
