Tragic Death of Student Sparks Police Investigation in Manyara Region
In a shocking incident that highlights the dangerous consequences of superstition, a 17-year-old secondary school student lost his life after being falsely accused of theft based on a witchdoctor’s misleading divination.
Yohana Konki, a Form Four student from Qash Secondary School in Babati District, was brutally beaten to death by his classmates on the morning of August 16, 2025. The tragic event unfolded after a student who had lost a tablet consulted a witchdoctor, who allegedly pointed to Yohana as the thief.
Regional authorities have confirmed that 11 students are currently in custody for their involvement in the fatal assault. The witchdoctor responsible for the initial accusation has fled and remains at large, with police actively pursuing the investigation.
The case highlights a disturbing trend of vigilante justice and the dangerous influence of supernatural beliefs in the community. Local law enforcement is working to process the case, with the National Prosecution Service currently reviewing the evidence against the detained students.
Yohana was laid to rest on August 20, 2025, in Tsamas village, leaving behind a community in shock and mourning. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for education and rational thinking to prevent such tragic miscarriages of justice.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are committed to bringing all responsible parties to justice.
