By Alimamy Jalloh
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – On Wednesday, August 28, Abu Joko Bangura, Secretary General of the Council of Traditional Healers Sierra Leone, disclosed to Awoko that their organization has recorded the apprehension of over 250 individuals suspected of witchcraft across the country.
Bangura revealed that of these 250 individuals, 120 were identified in the provinces. The majority of those recorded were women, with some children also being implicated, as noted in their comprehensive records and screenings conducted in both Freetown and the provincial areas.
“Our investigations have shown that Freetown has the highest concentration of suspected witches in Sierra Leone,” Bangura told Awoko.
The data compiled by the Council spans from 2022 to 2024. Among the 250 apprehended individuals, more than 130 remain unaccounted for, adding to the complexity of the situation.
The Council plans to conduct a major purge of witchcraft-related activities and the destruction of demonic charms after the rainy season. These charms, the Council claims, are used to harm people’s futures and perpetuate malevolent practices.
Bangura expressed the Council’s belief that witchcraft inflicts significant spiritual damage and causes serious problems that adversely affect individuals’ lives.
“Due to these reasons, we are committed to eradicating witchcraft across the country once the rainy season concludes,” he asserted.
He warned that any individual found practising witchcraft will be apprehended, disarmed, and punished.
“Witches are prevalent throughout the country, but Freetown faces the most severe impact,” Bangura noted.
He explained that the migration of suspected witches to the capital from other provinces is driven by their malevolent objectives. This influx has been linked to an increase in various afflictions among innocent residents, including severe diseases and physical injuries.
The Council’s ongoing efforts underscore their commitment to addressing what they perceive as a serious threat to public health and safety.
