Fake healers caught planting objects in businessman's home during ritual scam

Two self-proclaimed traditional healers - popularly known as Tsikamutandas - were caught on CCTV planting a live object during a staged ritual at a businessman's home in Umguza District, just outside Bulawayo, along Nkayi Road.

According to a post by journalist Ezra Sibanda, the incident unfolded after the businessman's family accused him of using witchcraft to gain wealth, blaming him for their poverty, failed crops, and unemployment. The family believed they were victims of "ondofa," a dark spiritual force said to enrich its master at the expense of others.

Fueling the suspicion were two Tsikamutandas who had recently visited the area. They claimed the businessman had used dark powers and offered to cleanse the homestead for a fee of US$1,000.

Rather than deny the allegations, the businessman agreed to the ritual - and the payment. What the Tsikamutandas didn't know was that the house was equipped with hidden CCTV cameras in every room.

The next day, the healers arrived confidently, dressed in casual wear, and requested privacy to conduct the cleansing. The family complied, eager for deliverance.

Inside, the ritual began. One healer sprinkled a mixture of water and salt, while the other discreetly placed a sedated iguana behind the door. They then lit herbs and declared they were intoxicating the spirit to trap it.

Moments later, they theatrically summoned the family and pointed to the iguana. "Behold!" one shouted. "This is what has been destroying your lives."

Gasps filled the room - until the businessman stepped forward with a TV and remote. He asked everyone to sit down and watch.

With a click, the television displayed footage from the CCTV cameras, showing the Tsikamutandas sneaking the iguana into the house. The room fell silent. The conmen froze. The crowd outside burst in, furious. The two were beaten, tied up, and handed over to police.

"These fake prophets are destroying our communities," the businessman said. "Don't let Tsikamutandas divide and defraud you with their lies."

Sibanda noted that many such fraudsters prey on fear, poverty, and ignorance. Without the CCTV footage, the family might have remained divided - possibly leading to serious conflict.

"This is a lesson to all families," Sibanda added. "Be mindful of scammers masquerading as prophets." 

See video footage here >>>