By Burnett Munthali
Sixty-four people have been arrested in southern Malawi for allegedly spreading rumors about the disappearance of human private parts, a development that has led to the killing of seven people in recent weeks.
The arrests were made in Chikwawa and Nsanje districts, where the rumors have sparked violence and panic among local communities. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Ben Phiri, condemned the spread of the rumors, saying his ministry would take action against those promoting them.
Dr. Phiri specifically targeted traditional leader Moses, saying he would be dethroned for his alleged role in promoting the rumors.
The minister’s comments underscore the government’s determination to tackle the issue.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Dr. Noel Kaira, warned that the police would take tough action against anyone involved in spreading the rumors, saying “we will rain hell” on villages found to be implicated.
The police and government are working together to address the issue, and stakeholders have assured the public that measures are in place to prevent further violence and killings.
The rumors, which have been circulating in various parts of the country, claim that people’s body parts are being stolen, often for ritual purposes.
However, authorities have dismissed the claims as baseless and harmful.
