In a surprising turn of events, a traditional healer in Bulawayo found himself a victim of theft when an audacious thief broke into his house and allegedly stole his practicing certificate, identity documents, and US$300.
Rather than relying on his magical powers to recover the stolen items, Luckjoy Tongogara, the sangoma, reported the incident to the police.
The incident came to light during the trial of Jackson Takaruza, a 30-year-old resident of Pelandaba West suburb in Bulawayo. Takaruza was charged with unlawful entry into premises committed in aggravating circumstances, as defined in the Criminal Law and Codification Act. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During the trial, Takaruza admitted to entering Tongogara’s room but denied taking the practicing certificate and money. Meanwhile, Tongogara testified that he strongly suspected Takaruza of being the thief, as his neighbours had witnessed Takaruza entering his room while he was away.
According to the court proceedings, Tongogara had locked his room before leaving for errands. During his absence, Takaruza allegedly entered the house, opened the door to Tongogara’s room, and made off with the sangoma’s Zinatha practicing certificates, identity documents, and US$300.
Upon returning home later that evening, Tongogara was shocked to discover his room’s door wide open. Upon closer inspection, he realized that his certificates, documents, and money were missing. Seeking information, he approached a neighbor who confirmed witnessing Takaruza entering his room.
Prompted by this information, Tongogara promptly reported the theft to the police, leading to Takaruza’s subsequent arrest.
The incident serves as a reminder that even individuals with mystical abilities sometimes rely on conventional means, such as law enforcement, to address criminal acts committed against them.
