Three women in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, narrowly escaped a harrowing experience after a spiritual cleansing ceremony with a traditional healer turned into a suspected sexual assault trap. The women, identified as Pamela Bako, Shillah Mabvudzi, and Talent, allege they were forced to flee naked through a forest to escape the ordeal.
They had traveled to a mountain with a traditional healer known as Sekuru Sinaro for a cleansing ritual, where they were given herbs to ingest, bathe with, and wash their hands in. However, the situation quickly became alarming when Sekuru Sinaro left them alone with his two male aides. Pamela grew suspicious after overhearing the aides whispering about them in a suggestive manner. She questioned why they were being forced to view a mirror in a dark room while being watched by the men.
Pamela, who had her baby with her, refused to stay overnight. A disturbing comment from one of the aides, suggesting Sekuru could pay her rent, solidified her fears that they were planning to exploit them. Around 7 PM, the women made the brave decision to run into the forest in different directions. Pamela eventually found her way to the main road and reached Harare, deeply regretting the entire experience.
Shillah's escape led her to the home of Apostle Blessed Mugwambeni around 11 PM. Her half-naked appearance initially caused panic, as the family, who had been praying against witchcraft, feared the worst. However, after hearing her story, they provided her with clothes and attempted to take her to the police. Unfortunately, they were unable to get assistance due to the absence of female officers.
Shillah recounted her shock at finding no women at the shrine, which immediately raised red flags. When they tried to leave, Sekuru's aides blocked them, forcing their desperate escape, during which they left their phones behind. This alarming incident has sparked outrage and concern in Chitungwiza, drawing attention to the potential dangers faced by those seeking spiritual guidance from certain traditional healers. Authorities have not yet confirmed any arrests or investigations into the matter.
