PETER MALASHA writes from Mkushi
@SunZambian
Serenje’s Mailo ward Councillor Patrick Munshya has bemoaned increased suspected witchcraft and ritual killings in the ward.
Councillor Munshya told the The Sun in an interview that, the situation was worrying and needed intervention from relevant authorities .
Mr. Munshya said residents in the area which borders with Chitambo district were taking the law in their hands whenever they suspected one of practicing witchcraft.
He warned that if the situation remained unchecked, people might be killing each other without being remorseful or fearful.
Mr. Munshya cited an incident where a named man was beaten on suspicion of practicing witchcraft and he was only saved by his dog which chased them away.
He also pointed out a recent incident which happened on Christmas eve were a woman was beaten to death on suspicion of practising witchcraft.
He said following the incidents, which were not reported to police, people were living in fear especially the aged.
Mr. Munshya has since appealed to government to ensure that perpetrators of the crime are punished accordingly.
“I am appealing to government through the Ministry of Home Affairs to look into the issue of ritual killings with the urgency it deserves. People in my ward are not secured because of the ritual killings,” Mr. Munshya said.