A self-proclaimed prophet from the Leviticus Voice of Prophet Church from Mazwa village in Kavango west is facing attempted murder and Health Professionals Act violation charges after a 12-year-old boy was left hospitalised following a controversial “healing” ritual gone wrong.
The incident occurred on October 18, 2025, when the boy was taken to the church by relatives in search of spiritual healing. According to reports, the prophet prepared a concoction of vinegar, salt, herbs, and water, claiming it would cleanse the boy’s body of illness. The mixture was allegedly administered rectally, and a similar solution was given to the boy’s grandmother for home use.
Soon after the ritual, the boy’s condition deteriorated rapidly. His family rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Medical staff later discovered intestinal damage, though it remains unclear whether the injuries were caused by the mixture or a pre-existing condition. Blood samples have been sent for laboratory analysis, and results are still pending.
Police officially registered the case on October 20, but no arrests have been made yet. The child has since been moved from the ICU to a general ward and is said to be in stable condition as investigations continue.
Following the incident, authorities have issued a stern warning to churches involved in similar unregulated healing practices. They urged religious leaders to refrain from using harmful substances or performing unsafe medical procedures under the guise of faith healing.
“People should seek help from qualified medical professionals and be cautious of anyone making unverified healing claims,” a health ministry spokesperson said.
This case has reignited public debate on the intersection between faith and medicine, highlighting the need for stricter oversight of churches offering so-called miracle cures and spiritual treatments.
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