‘Ritual killings’ claim six lives in Kavango West

Alleged ritual killings have claimed six lives in Kavango West this year alone, sparking fear and outrage among residents who staged a demonstration in Nkurenkuru this week.The killings are reportedly driven by beliefs that human organs such as hearts, kidneys, eyes, and genitalia can bring wealth, power, or business success. These body parts are said to be sold to those seeking fortune.Demonstration leader Gabriel Tenga told the crowd that families have been left devastated, with some victims missing for years, and urged communities to assist police with information to end the violence.“Vakakorora (ritual killers) live among us, eat with us, and drink with us at shebeens. We cannot live in harmony if we do not report these barbaric acts. Fighting crime must start at household level,” he said.Tenga called on residents from Nkurenkuru, Kakuro, Siurungu, Karayi, Mutengo, and Kahenge to share information that could lead to arrests. He also criticised police investigations, saying the repeated discovery of mutilated bodies had not resulted in suspects being apprehended.“Most people in Kavango West know how to survive; bodies don’t just lose organs naturally. Why are these murders unresolved?” he asked, warning that trust in authorities was diminishing.Several families have been left in anguish. On 5 September, the body of Abisai Kakukuru was discovered with his face ripped off, a hand and leg missing, his eyes gouged out, and his chest cut open. Tenga also recalled the case of a man who disappeared in 2019 and has never been found.“Even one life lost in this manner is too many. Every life is important, whether commoner, king, rich, or poor. The police must act, and the governor must ensure justice is served,” he said.Regional police commander Commissioner Julila Neo Sakuwa confirmed that two bodies were recovered from rivers in the region this year, both missing body parts including eyes, ears, and a tongue. One body was missing a leg, while the other was found reduced to a skull.“From the evidence collected, it is difficult to conclude these are ritual killings. The damage could be caused by crocodiles or tiger fish in the rivers. Autopsies so far have not provided definitive answers,” she said.Sakuwa urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with police. “Many bodies are only reported after being found, often decomposed, which hampers investigations. If missing persons are reported immediately, it allows us to conduct timely searches and improves the chances of solving cases,” she explained.She added that police patrols are conducted around the clock across rivers and borders to ensure residents’ safety.Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo received the petition, thanking residents for their vigilance and assuring that the matter would be addressed with relevant authorities.“Let us stand together to protect the dignity of life, promote peace, and strengthen our community spirit,” she said, urging anyone with information to come forward in confidence.

‘Ritual killings’ claim six lives in Kavango West

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-11-21

Please login to leave a comment

‘Ritual killings’ claim six lives in Kavango West

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-11-21

Please login to leave a comment

Subscription Required to Access Content ×

Login

Subscription Required to Access Content