TWO Filabusi villagers were jailed for four years for assaulting their uncle and damaging his property after accusing him of witchcraft.

Sukoluhle Mpunzi (24) and Tinotenda Mangena (18) from the Zvikombe area were denying the charges when they appeared before Filabusi resident magistrate Abednico Ndebele, who convicted them at the close of the state’s case.

One year of their sentence was suspended for three years on condition of good behaviour.

A further six months were suspended on condition they restitute the sum of US$340 by July 28.

On the second count of assault, the two were sentenced to two years each with six months being suspended for three years on the condition of good behaviour.

In their defence, the two said they assaulted their uncle after consulting a prophet who told them that he was the one behind their misfortunes.

They severely assaulted their uncle, damaged a car windscreen and five window panes using stones as well as metal objects.

They went on to pierce a Jojo water tank with a knife before leaving the homestead