Maldives’ anti-black magic legal measures need ‘streamlining’
Sorcery-related arrests have been common in recent years, but suspects are often released soon after without charge due to the complexity of legal action. The current penal code does not have a specific provision for black magic and sorcery.
02 Oct 2017, 9:00 AM
Legal measures for the prosecution and prevention of sorcery and black magic need to be ‘streamlined’, authorities have told the Maldives Independent.
Belief in sorcery and black magic, known locally as fanditha and sihuru, is common in the Maldives. Fanditha is allowed for licensed parties under a 1978 law. Sihuru, enlisting demons to harm others, while not illegal is considered taboo and is unauthorised.
Sihuru-related arrests have been common in recent years, but suspects are often released soon after without charge due to the complexity of legal action.
There are legal loopholes in charging practitioners because the current penal code does not have a specific provision for black magic and sorcery.
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