STOLEN TRADITIONAL HEALER’S ITEMS MYSTERIOUSLY RETURNED AT MAMBANE

MAMBANE – In a surprising turn of events, the traditional medicine and healing items stolen from Inyanga Mahlabasihlangane Ndzinisa’s consultation room (indumba) at Mambane last month have been ‘mysteriously’ returned. The theft, which occurred on January 6, 2025, and was reported to the Tikhuba and Siteki Police Stations, had sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about both the financial loss and the deep cultural and spiritual implications of such an act.

As previously reported, unknown assailants broke into Ndzinisa’s indumba and made off with an estimated E30 740 worth of traditional medicines and healing kit, leaving behind other valuables.  The incident sparked widespread unease, with many fearing the spiritual repercussions of disturbing such sacred items. Traditional healers emphasised the importance of muti in African belief systems, highlighting its connection to ancestral spirits and the potential consequences for those who disrespect it. Yesterday morning, Ndzinisa discovered the stolen items – including a kanga, drums, concoctions in bottles and other traditional medicines – placed within his family yard, just a few metres from the indumba.  

Visibly relieved, Ndzinisa immediately contacted the police, who had been investigating the initial break-in.  He also consulted with another traditional healer to perform rituals before touching the returned items. “It is strange that someone can invade my home in the wee hours and bring back my items I used for healing,” Ndzinisa commented.  He acknowledged that he suspected certain individuals of trying to frustrate him, but expressed relief that the items had been returned.

He also noted the disruption the theft had caused to his healing practice, as he relied on the stolen medicines and tools in his work with clients. Ndzinisa hopes that the ritual will shed light on who was behind both the theft and the return of the items. The timing of the items’ return, while the police investigation was still ongoing, has raised questions. While Ndzinisa remained somewhat coy about whether he had performed rituals to ensure the return of his belongings, he did confirm that the police were actively involved in the case.

Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that the police had received a report about the returned items and had responded accordingly. The police investigation into the initial theft remains ongoing. One resident said :“This unexpected development brings a sense of closure to a disturbing chapter for the Mambane community.  While questions remain about the motives behind the theft and the return, the safe recovery of the traditional medicines and healing kits offers a sense of relief and a restoration of balance within the community.”

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