Natalie Mhandu Released Unconditionally as Witchcraft Allegations Stir National Debate

Natalie Mhandu, a well-known socialite and video vixen popularly known as Enchantress, has been unconditionally released following her appearance before the Mbare Magistrate’s Court, where she faced allegations of engaging in acts traditionally associated with witchcraft.

The court opted not to proceed with prosecution, resulting in Mhandu’s immediate release without conditions. Her brief arrest and subsequent release have reignited national debate around Zimbabwe’s witchcraft legislation and its place in a modern legal system.

The case emerged after two women—believed to be former friends of Mhandu—filed a police report accusing her of sorcery.

The allegations were reportedly prompted by information shared by Mhandu’s former domestic worker, who claimed to have knowledge of ritualistic practices involving the accused.

According to sources close to the investigation, Mhandu was recently summoned to Glen View Police Station for questioning. While initial reports suggested she had been held overnight, authorities later clarified that she was released into the custody of her legal team due to the non-violent nature of the allegations and her confirmed place of residence.

Police confirmed that the matter is being investigated under Section 98 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. This section criminalizes acts commonly linked to witchcraft, particularly when done with the intention to instill fear or cause harm. If convicted, individuals may face fines up to level ten, a prison term of up to five years, or both.

However, legal experts note that the law requires more than hearsay or accusations. Physical evidence and culturally informed testimony are necessary to establish a case. According to the Act, spoken or written statements alone do not constitute witchcraft unless accompanied by physical acts or symbols recognized as such by traditional standards.

Reports indicate that the complainants, acting on claims from the former maid, were led to a site in Pension Farm, Glen View, where they allegedly discovered a red cloth and a knife bearing their names—items they believe connect Mhandu to spiritual manipulation. Investigators have not yet confirmed the authenticity of this evidence.

Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed that inquiries are ongoing. “Police are investigating a case involving allegations of witchcraft among individuals who were once friends. More information will be shared as inquiries progress,” he said.

Unverified sources suggest the conflict may stem from a romantic dispute involving a shared partner. Tensions reportedly escalated after Mhandu’s fallout with the complainants and the dismissal of her domestic worker, who later communicated the ritual claims to the two women.

The case has sparked widespread attention on social media, especially after an audio recording—believed to feature Mhandu—surfaced online. In the clip, a woman strongly denies the accusations, alleging the former maid fabricated the story to tarnish her image.

While public interest in the matter continues to grow, Mhandu has not issued an official statement beyond the disputed recording.

As legal authorities weigh the merits of the case, the spotlight remains on Zimbabwe’s controversial witchcraft laws and their application in contemporary society.

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