A shocking case has emerged in Vanderbijlpark, where an alleged sangoma grave robber was caught with a human skull. The arrest has sparked fresh concern over ritual-linked crimes in Gauteng, leaving families and community leaders demanding answers.
What Happened at Vanderbijlpark Cemetery
On 6 September 2025, cemetery security guards noticed suspicious activity in Vanderbijlpark. A man was spotted digging up graves and attempting to place bones into a bag.
When approached, he was allegedly found holding a human skull. The suspect, who claimed to be a sangoma from Tshepong, reportedly confessed to digging up graves for muti rituals, saying he used body parts to “cure” clients.
Municipality spokesperson Makhosonke Sangweni confirmed that this was not the first incident.
“Since the start of the year, seven graves at Jackobskop Cemetery have been dug up. The latest was reported on 5 September.”
A police case has been opened. At the time of reporting, Vanderbijlpark SAPS had not yet confirmed details of the arrest.
A Disturbing Trend in South Africa
This is not an isolated case. In Limpopo, police arrested a sangoma in August 2025 who was found with the decapitated heads of a woman and her toddler daughter. Suspects were charged with murder and possession of human tissue.
In the Free State, a traditional healer received a five-year prison sentence for violating graves and removing body parts. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stressed that desecration of corpses is a serious criminal offence.
These cases show how ritual-linked crimes continue to unsettle communities and place pressure on law enforcement.
Sangoma Grave Robber Cases and Cultural Stigma
Sangomas hold an important role in South African culture, offering healing and spiritual guidance. But incidents like these create damaging stereotypes and spark mistrust.
According to criminologist Prof. Jaco Barkhuizen, while some criminals use traditional beliefs as cover for illegal activities, most sangomas strongly oppose these practices. Many cultural leaders describe them as distortions of tradition, carried out for profit rather than healing.
Unfortunately, the actions of a few continue to harm the reputation of genuine healers.
Legal Consequences for Grave Robbing
South African law is clear. Crimes involving human remains can lead to charges of:
- Violation or desecration of a corpse
- Possession of human tissue without authority
- Desecration of graves
- Murder, if linked to ritual killings
Penalties can include five years or more in prison. Courts treat these offences seriously because they violate human dignity and traumatise families. Forensic teams are often called in to verify that remains are human and to establish identities where possible.
Community Concerns and Security Gaps
Families who have loved ones buried in cemeteries feel violated and traumatised. In Vanderbijlpark and surrounding areas, residents are calling for stronger security measures. Proposals include:
- CCTV surveillance
- Improved fencing
- Increased patrols at night
Local officials admit that resource shortages have left cemeteries exposed, but the pressure to act has grown since this arrest
Expert Insights on Ritual Crimes
Experts point to several issues in cases involving alleged sangoma grave robbers:
- Underreporting: Many incidents are never reported to authorities.
- Forensic delays: Confirming evidence takes time, slowing justice.
- Cultural manipulation: Criminals exploit belief systems for money.
- Stigma: Legitimate sangomas are unfairly associated with crime.
The Department of Health and traditional healer councils continue to urge communities to use only registered healers and to report suspicious behaviour.
The Way Forward
The Vanderbijlpark suspect faces multiple charges. If convicted, he could serve years in prison. Investigators are also trying to determine whether he acted alone or as part of a wider network involved in muti-related crimes.
For families, the case is a painful reminder of how vulnerable cemeteries remain. For authorities, it is a test of whether South Africa can protect its cultural traditions while bringing criminals to justice.
Protecting Graves and Cultural Dignity
The Vanderbijlpark sangoma grave robber case highlights the need to safeguard both the dignity of the dead and the trust of the living. Crimes like these damage communities, undermine cultural traditions, and cause deep trauma for families.
As the case unfolds, South Africans will expect firm action from law enforcement, better protection of cemeteries, and continued efforts from cultural leaders to separate genuine healing from criminal exploitation.
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