Lusaka pastor flees after man dies during healing session in Kanyama!

A 25-year-old man of Lusaka’s Kanyama West has died during a healing session with a pastor from the same area.

The incident occurred when the victim, seeking relief from leg swelling, died during the session, prompting the Papa to flee through a window immediately after.

According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, a report of a sudden and unnatural death was received today at approximately 17:10 hours. The report was made by Elias Mwanza, 48, who identified the deceased as his son, Oscar Mwanza.

Mwanza told police that Oscar had been suffering from leg pain for about two weeks. In an effort to find healing, the family invited a local pastor identified as Trust Moyo, believed to be between 25 and 35 years old, and associated with Zioni Church in Kanyama.

During the prayer session held at the family’s home, the pastor allegedly instructed the family to administer a mixture of eggs and Coca-Cola to Oscar. He then placed a stone on fire and used it to apply pressure to the young man’s legs. Immediately afterward, Oscar screamed, collapsed and became unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police say the pastor is on the run, and a manhunt has been launched.

“Following the incident, the pastor fled through a window and is currently on the run. Police have opened an inquiry file and investigations are underway,” said Hamoonga.

The body has since been deposited at UTH mortuary where a postmortem will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Police are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the suspect’s arrest.

By James Lungu

June 14, 2025

NKANI