Mob rampages over 'black magic'

BANJARNEGARA, Central Java: At least 200 residents of Karangkobar village here went on a rampage on Wednesday, destroying three houses belonging to alleged practitioners of black magic, locally known as dukun santet.

The alleged black magic practitioners, identified as Mistareja, 60, Muheri, 50, and Nadirun, 40, as well as eight of their relatives, were uninjured in the attack and currently are under police protection.

The incident was sparked by a report that local resident Sahudi became ill after drinking water at Mistareja's house.

"The residents went on a rampage, accusing Mistareja of using black magic against Sahudi," local police chief second Lt. Paijan said. (45/edt)