Traditional Healer Sentenced for Possession of Human Skulls

The Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala has sentenced John Magombe, a traditional healer found in possession of three human skulls, to seven years in prison. Lady Justice Margaret Mutonyi delivered the conviction after Magombe admitted to purchasing the skulls from other practitioners for his traditional healing practice.

Magombe was apprehended on February 3, 2023, by Crime Intelligence detectives at Katwe Police in Kazinga Masaja Kibira B village, Masajja Parish, Makindye Sabagabo. Upon searching his shrine, the police discovered human remains, including three skulls, and a container containing what appeared to be human or animal blood. Initially denying involvement in human sacrifice, Magombe later pleaded guilty.

During sentencing, Justice Mutonyi stressed the severity of Magombe’s actions, highlighting the potential for crimes such as murder or grave desecration to obtain human skulls. Although it remained unclear whether the skulls were obtained through murder or grave robbery, the judge emphasized the criminality of using human remains in traditional healing.

Justice Mutonyi emphasized that shrine owners who use human skulls or bones are criminals and should be prosecuted under the Prevention and Prohibition of Human Sacrifice Law. She condemned such actions for manipulating clients and promoting human sacrifice, deeming it barbaric and illegal.

“By employing frightening elements like human skulls, these criminals manipulate their clients. The law is relatively new and addresses concerns about the barbarity of human sacrifice. This behavior must not be encouraged as it promotes human sacrifice,” stated Mutonyi.

Drawing from biblical teachings, Mutonyi highlighted that Jesus Christ performed miracles using natural elements, like sand and saliva, never resorting to human remains. She condemned Magombe’s actions as satanic and primitive, asserting they have no place in Uganda’s modern, Christian-centric society.

“Since he pleaded guilty, the court is affording him a second chance to contemplate idol worship and its consequences, reflect on his relationship with God, and emerge as a reformed Christian. After all, he bears the name John, which is a Christian name,” Mutonyi remarked.

Considering his guilty plea, Magombe will serve the remaining five years, eight months, and sixteen days in Luzira prison after accounting for time spent on remand. While he retains the right to appeal the sentence within 14 days, he cannot challenge his conviction, having waived his right to be presumed innocent by pleading guilty.