RUNDU – An elderly couple were on Friday hacked to death with an axe by their 27-year-old grandson on allegations of witchcraft. The deceased, Maria Kakove Mukuve (84) and Hamukwaya Clemens (79), both Namibians, died on the spot.

The suspect was arrested and is due to appear in court facing two charges of murder read with the provision of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, Act 4/2003. 

“The sad incident happened on Friday, 11 July 2025 at about 13h25 when the elderly couple (pensioners) was hacked to death at Kayeura village, Musese constituency, in Kavango West region,’’ said regional police spokesperson, Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga.

It’s alleged that the suspect killed his grandparents by hitting them with an axe on the neck several times, and they died on the spot.

“It’s further alleged that the motive of the killing is linked to suspicions of witchcraft within the family. Both were the residents of Kayeura village, and their next of kin were informed of the death,’’ Muronga said while noting that police investigation continues in the case.