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Tanzania Opens Trials in Killings of Albinos

Dozens arrested in 40 murders; body parts used for witchcraft

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 9, 2009 8:28 AM CDT

(Newser) – Tanzania is trying seven people for murdering albinos and selling their body parts for use in witchcraft, the BBC reports. Dozens have been arrested in some 40 murders over the past year and a half, but so far no one has been convicted. Witch doctors sell “albino potions” for thousands of dollars, saying they bring good luck; some of their customers are believed to be top businessmen.

Tanzanian albino Muadhani Ramadhani weaves a carpet Friday, May 4, 2007, as part of celebrations to mark World Albino Day.
Tanzanian albino Muadhani Ramadhani weaves a carpet Friday, May 4, 2007, as part of celebrations to mark World Albino Day.   (AP Photo/Khalfan Said)
In this  March 29, 2009 file photo, African Albino identified only as Moszy, right, seen, after arriving on a small boat with 60 other migrants in Granadilla on the Canary island of Tenerife, Spain. Spain is giving fast-track treatment to an asylum request from an African albino who fears his...
In this March 29, 2009 file photo, African Albino identified only as Moszy, right, seen, after arriving on a small boat with 60 other migrants in Granadilla on the Canary island of Tenerife, Spain. Spain...   (AP Photo/Carlos Moreno, File)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
Jeebus
Jun 10, 2009 1:00 AM CDT
Witchcraft, Ahh, religion in its purest form.
JonmarkP
Jun 9, 2009 6:59 AM CDT
What does the Bible have to say about albinism?
Mr.C
Jun 9, 2009 6:30 AM CDT
Recent aid packages allowed tens of thousands to go to school in Tanzania . Their parents couldn't afford to.

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