Traditional healer found with human skull linked to grave desecrations in Vanderbijlpark

VANDERBIJLPARK - A 36-year-old man from Tshepong, who identified himself as a traditional healer, has been arrested after being found in possession of a human skull. The suspect was caught on Saturday, 6 September 2025, during routine patrols at the Vanderbijlpark Cemetery by security contracted by the Emfuleni Local Municipality. ELM spokesperson Makhosonke Sangweni confirmed the arrest, linking the suspect to a string of grave desecrations at Jackobskop Cemetery earlier this year, where at least seven graves had been disturbed. The most recent incident was reported on Friday, 5 September. In a confession, the man admitted to exhuming graves and using human remains in rituals, claiming they were intended to “cure” his clients. A criminal case has been opened, and the suspect is being held at Vanderbijlpark SAPS pending further investigation. Authorities have condemned the acts as deeply disturbing and disrespectful.