Confirming the development to Zodiak Online on Tuesday, district police spokesperson Sergeant Tupeliwe Kabwilo says the incident occurred on 10 February 2023.

It is reported that on February 3, 2023 Harvey Msimuko went missing in the area of Group village headman Lisa under Traditional Authority Chikulamayembe.

His family after noticing that days were going without seeing him they went to a witch doctor who told them that their relative is in the house of Aaron Msowoya and that he is keeping him magically.

This did not please them and eventually they stormed his house, tortured him and destroyed his house property.

Meanwhile the accused, Aaron Msowoya says the angry mob did not only beat him up but also stole three bags of fertilizer and Maize.

"I feel ashamed because of this false accusations and i call upon law enforcers to ensure that anyone who took part in this act should face the law," said Msowoya.

In his remarks Group village headman Lisa has condemned the barbaric act by the communities saying this a is violation of human rights.

Rumphi Police spokesperson Sergeant Tupeliwe Kabwilo says the four families will only return to their homes when there is calm and that no one has been arrested in connection to the matter.