Dozens Killed by Mobs Amid Witchcraft Panic in Mozambique

A grim wave of vigilante killings has left at least 60 people dead, driven by panic over rumours that men’s genitals were being “shrunk” or “stolen.” Eyewitnesses said accusations alone were enough to spark instant fury, with crowds rapidly coalescing into mobs that beat or killed the alleged culprits.

The unrest erupted in mid-April in Cabo Delgado province and has since spilled into other parts of the country. Authorities have responded with hundreds of arrests. People who claimed to be victims of the purported attacks were taken to hospitals and police stations for evaluation, where medical staff concluded the allegations were baseless.

The turmoil has prompted appeals for restraint from senior figures in the ruling Frelimo party, including President Daniel Chapo, who urged the public to remain calm.