The allegations apparently surfaced after three teachers at the school died mysteriously between November and July, leaving some of their colleagues, parents and school board members wondering if some unnatural powers were behind the deaths.

It is now believed that the alleged culprits are accused of harnessing the power of an invisible blood-sucking zombie which can cause a sudden death whenever it craves for more blood.

Fear is so rife among teachers and pupils that a group of concerned teachers, parents and school board members formed a committee last month to investigate the "force" behind the deaths.

The committee consulted a number of Sangomas (witch doctors), who apparently warned them that six to eight more teachers could lose their lives at the school in the near future "if something is not done".

The committee convened a well-attended public meeting on Wednesday evening, where it presented feedback from its consultations with the Sangomas.

According to the Sangomas' opinion which was read out, two teachers at the school - yearning for senior positions - are allegedly responsible for the deaths.

The alleged culprits are accused of using an invisible blood-sucking zombie which can cause a sudden death whenever it craves for more blood.

After listening to the committee, those in attendance demanded the immediate transfer of the two suspected teachers and that the school be cleansed spiritually.

"Its not difficult for us to demonstrate on the streets to show our grievances or prevent teachers and our children from entering this school until our demands are met," one member of the public fumed.

The school principal could not be reached for comment, but The Namibian has established that he has refused to become involved in the matter because he does not believe in witchcraft.

The Ministry of Basic Education, Sport and Culture has set up a team, headed by the acting Regional Director for Khomas Natalia Goagoses, to investigate the issue.

The Ministry's Public Relations Officer, Veiwe Kangueehi, told The Namibian that the investigating team yesterday met with the school management, members of the concerned group and the school board.

"The Ministry's policy is very clear ... nothing other than educational matters should be brought on the school ground," she noted, adding that her Ministry does not recognise witchdoctors.

Observers believe that if the Ministry pursued demands for the suspected teachers to be transferred it could have serious legal implications as it would require that their names be revealed.

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