Malawi Police hunts for albino attackers: Body parts sold for witchcraft

Malawi  Police say they have intensified their hunt for attackers who severely wounded two persons with albinism who are battling for their lives at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Blantyre.

The unknown attackers severely wounded brothers of albinism, Alfred and Yohane Misoya. Alfred is aged 27 while Yohane is 21 and were attacked in a house they were sleeping in the wee hours of Friday in Nsanje.

Police spokesperson James Kadadzera said police investigators are using all clues to arrest the attackers.

Boniface Massa, national coordinator of Association of People with Albinism in Malawi attributed the attacks to laxity in security.

He called on the police to  intensify security for people with albinism.

In addition, he said there was need for more civic education and sensitisations on the evils of attacking and killing people with albinism.

Amnesty International says police lack investigative skills and the majority of cases remain unresolved.

The body parts of albinos – who lack pigment in their skin, hair and eyes – are believed to bring wealth and good luck and are prized in witchcraft for use in charms and magical potions.

People with albinism face discrimination and threats, both at school and in their communities. Myths about albinism abound, including the belief that having sex with an albino is a cure for HIV.

Last year, a UN expert warned that Malawi’s estimated 10,000 albinos face “extinction” if they continue to be murdered for their body parts