Man Acquitted After Killing His Mother in Witchcraft Row

• Amad Nyathi was acquitted for the death of his mother after a witchcraft argument.
• The magistrate ruled he acted in self-defense during a violent confrontation.
• Witnesses reported disturbing details of the altercation, claiming possession by spirits.

Court Acquits Man in Disturbing Witchcraft Incident

In a shocking turn of events, Amad Nyathi, a 47-year-old man from Mzilikazi suburb in Bulawayo, has been acquitted of culpable homicide charges after fatally injuring his mother. This incident happened during a heated confrontation over witchcraft allegations on January 13, 2017. The case drew significant public attention, especially given the bizarre nature of the events that led to the tragic incident, witnessed by several neighbors.

Tensions Erupt Over Allegations of Witchcraft

The magistrate, Matthew Mutiro, determined that Nyathi acted in self-defense, emphasizing he did not intend to kill his mother, Sikhangele Nyathi, aged 69. Court documents revealed that before the incident, a group of self-styled prophets visited their home and claimed Sikhangele was responsible for a series of deaths impacting their family. This allegation escalated already existing tensions, leading to an outrageous scene that ultimately ended in violence.

Witness Accounts Highlight Family Strife

During the chaotic confrontation, the elderly woman became aggressive. Reports indicate she assaulted her son with a walking stick, hurled a brick, and even grabbed Nyathi’s genitals, holding on for an extended period amid accusations of being possessed by spirits. Witnesses testified they saw the shocking events unfold and were reluctant to intervene, fearing for their safety due to the alleged possession. Eventually, in a desperate act of self-preservation, Nyathi managed to wrestle the stick from his mother, resulting in fatal injuries that would later claim her life after six days in the hospital.

The acquittal of Amad Nyathi sheds light on complex issues surrounding self-defense in domestic confrontations. The strange circumstances of the case, tied to witchcraft allegations, highlight the distressing dynamics of family violence. This case, observed by the community, emphasizes the need for a serious examination of mental health support and domestic disputes within families.