The South African Police Service (SAPS) in North West is investigating a suspected occult murder involving a 25-year-old man who allegedly hacked his 48-year-old mother to death at Mosiane View village, Mahikeng, on 4 October 2025.
A video circulating on social media shows the son using a shovel in the attack.
He later died from injuries sustained after a neighbour fired shots to calm him. The motive remains unknown.
SAPS INVESTIGATES POSSIBLE OCCULT MURDER
The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, suggested the crime may reflect exposure to satanic ritual practices, occult influences or drug use.
“The gratuitous killing of his own mother is symptomatic of societal neglect, drug abuse, or ritualistic activity,” he said.
The SAPS will investigate all angles, including the suspected occult practices, to determine the cause and effect of the tragedy.
The SAPS Occult Related Crimes Unit has also joined the probe.
A SOCIETAL CAUSE FOR CONCERN
Asaneng warned that communities and parents often overlook warning signs of drug abuse or ritual practices.
He further stated that the incident raises concerns about parental vigilance, community awareness, and intervention programs aimed at preventing young people from engaging in dangerous or ritualistic behaviour.
