Pemba Police  In Zambia have launched a manhunt for a 49-year-old man, Tyson Matimba, who allegedly murdered his 81-year-old uncle, Edward Hatwiko, in Chigabwa village, Chief Hamaundu, Pemba district.

According to police reports, the incident occurred on February 9, 2025, around 02:00 hours, following longstanding accusations of witchcraft. Matimba had reportedly suspected his uncle of bewitching his daughter, Sharon Hamaimbo, who passed away in July 2024. Since then, he had been verbally abusing the deceased, blaming him for his daughter’s death.

On the night of the incident, Matimba, allegedly intoxicated after a drinking spree, resumed his verbal attacks. When Hatwiko stepped out of his house, located about 100 meters away, to confront him, Matimba is said to have grabbed a pounding stick and viciously assaulted him.

A 16-year-old nephew rushed to a nearby village to seek help, but by the time community members arrived, Hatwiko had succumbed to his injuries. Police officers who responded to the scene found the victim lying in a pool of blood with multiple injuries, including a swollen head, a cut on the forehead, and a broken right arm. A broken pounding stick, believed to be the murder weapon, was recovered from the suspect’s kitchen, located about eight meters from the crime scene.

Hatwiko’s body was transported to Pemba Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem and burial arrangements. Meanwhile, police have opened a case and intensified efforts to apprehend Matimba, who fled the scene after the incident.

Southern Division Police Commanding Officer Commissioner Auxensio Daka has assured the public that authorities are working tirelessly to bring the suspect to justice.

Zambia Today..