African Science leaves thief stuck on loot

A GOKWE burglar mysteriously got stuck to a grinding mill that he was trying to steal on Friday.

Villagers gathered to watch an embarrassed Pega Tambatubiti (39) of Marimirofa Village under Chief Nemangwe, as he struggled in vain against an invisible force that held him in place.

Chief Nemangwe confirmed the incident.

Tambatubiti allegedly broke into Thomas Ndlovu's shop and tried to steal an electric motor from a grinding mill.

He got stuck to the motor and could not move to leave the shop with it.
Ndlovu told Chief Nemangwe that he had consulted a witchdoctor to use ‘African science' to protect his property from theft.

The traditional leader said the Tambatubiti was discovered by Ndlovu in the morning rooted on the spot.

Ndlovu allegedly did some traditional rites that freed Tambatubiti from the floor but left the motor in his hands, before force marching him to the chief's homestead.

At the traditional court, the chief fined the suspect two head of cattle.
Gokwe, in the Midlands province is famous for unbelievable acts of witchcraft.

Legend has it that long ago, anyone who was found practicing witchcraft was banished from their village and sent to live in Gokwe.

Tales of people harnessing lightning and other natural forces to destroy enemies abound in the town.