Be wary of cults

As the nation unites in mourning the gruesome and tragic murder of Cheryl Avihe Ujaha, there is mounting speculation it could be a cultist or ritualistic killing.

Although scant details have poured forth regarding Cheryl’s murder, whose dismembered and mutilated body was found in a bushy area in Katutura on Tuesday, one of the many lingering fears is that cult-related activities played a role.

The police have promised they will leave no stone unturned, as they try to track down the suspects or suspects, and as they gather more evidence.

A generous reward of N$30 000 has also been offered for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of her killer or killers.

Cheryl’s heinous and merciless killing has caused untold anguish and pain for her family and the nation as a whole.

At the same time, her death has triggered a need for deeper reflection, especially regarding the unimaginable occult practices prevailing in our society.

Countries like South Africa have taken killings of this nature very seriously, to the point where a dedicated unit was established to investigate cases of an occult or ritualistic nature.

In fact, decades’ old unsolved murders, including the infamous B1 killings during which at least five women were murdered and dismembered between 2005 and 2007, point to a need to segregate these types of crimes and have specialist investigators look into them.

The activities of cults are a huge danger for all members of society and nothing should be left to chance when it comes to tackling this deeply disturbing phenomenon, which continues to wreak havoc. Law enforcement, the authorities and other stakeholders must play an active role in educating ignorant Namibians, who are continually falling prey to such dreadful practices.

The shocking truth is that many still believe they can get rich or become successful through using occult practices, which include sacrifices and all sorts of horrific ceremonies and rituals.