After Two Family Deaths, Zambian Man Spears Suspected Killer Crocodile

A Zambian community in Sokoto Village, Sioma District, recently witnessed a dramatic act of retribution after a man successfully hunted and killed a crocodile believed to have been responsible for the deaths of two young women from the same family within a four-day span. The tragic incidents occurred as both victims attempted to fetch water from the treacherous Zambezi River.

The first victim, 22-year-old Monde Pelekelo, was tragically attacked and dragged into the river by a crocodile. Just four days later, her 20-year-old family member, Sikwezi Pelekelo, met a similar fate at the exact same location. Sikwezi's fatal encounter took place around 3 pm on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, when the reptile ambushed her while she was collecting water, pulling her beneath the surface.

While Monde's body was recovered within a day of her disappearance, Sikwezi's remains were missing for several hours before they were eventually found floating. As the family grappled with immense grief, local residents began strategizing how to confront the formidable animal they suspected was behind the devastating losses.

A group of four villagers, including Mola Simona, embarked on a nocturnal search mission in a canoe. Simona recounted their strategy: “We waited for sunset and went to look for the crocodile on a canoe. Just a few minutes later, we noticed that the reptile was heading towards the same direction where it had attacked people. That is how we followed it.”

Armed with a spear, Simona ultimately confronted and fatally wounded the reptile. He expressed his determination, stating, “The [Department of National Parks and Wildlife] were here but failed to find it. Now here I am. We k!lled it without a gun. If anyone ever doubted a spear, today they can see that it can k!ll a crocodile.”

After bringing the massive animal ashore, onlookers observed distinct markings resembling the letters “MYJ” on its body. These mysterious symbols sparked immediate speculation among residents, with some attributing them to witchcraft while others dismissed them as mere coincidence. However, authorities have yet to establish any conclusive evidence confirming that the crocodile killed by the residents was indeed responsible for the deaths of Monde and Sikwezi Pelekelo.