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Murders Terrify Tanzanian Albinos

Killers sell body parts for use in witchcraft

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted Nov 4, 2008 2:03 PM CST

(Newser) – Tanzanian Albinos are living in fear, "unsure of waking up in one piece," said one, as 30 have been killed this year for their body parts, the Guardian reports. Their pigment-free hair, skin, genitals, and extremities are used in witchcraft to bring enrichment, a “stupid belief,” says the country’s president. His support of a rally held by some of Tanzania's 200,000 albinos has been ineffective in curbing the killings.

Tanzanian dancers welcome Bill Clinton as he arrives in Dar es Salaam last year. Some in Tanzania purchase the body parts of albinos for good luck.
Tanzanian dancers welcome Bill Clinton as he arrives in Dar es Salaam last year. Some in Tanzania purchase the body parts of albinos for good luck.   (Getty Images)
Albino people have no pigmentation in their skin, eyes, and hair, a condition that affects 200,000 of Tanzania's 40 million.
Albino people have no pigmentation in their skin, eyes, and hair, a condition that affects 200,000 of Tanzania's 40 million.   (AP Photo/Jorge Saenz)
A woman is showed suffering from albinism in Africa, circa 1950. In witchcraft, her body parts are considered good luck.
A woman is showed suffering from albinism in Africa, circa 1950. In witchcraft, her body parts are considered good luck.   (Getty Images)
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