Mobs kill alleged shaman in Cilacap

CILACAP, Central Java: A mob of about 100 people went on a rampage and destroyed a house in Bantarpanjang village, Cimanggu district, belonging to Sukamto, 61, a suspected shaman late on Monday night.

The old man survived the incident by fleeing before the mob reached his house.

Eye witnesses Rubiyati, 30 and Sarwo, 31, said locals accused Sukamto of practicing sorcery which caused the illness of two of his neighbors.

Banyumas Police have detained 35 people over the incident.

About a week ago 70-year-old Karmiat of Cimanggu was brutally killed by a mobs who also accused the victim of practicing black magic. At least 15 suspected shamans have been killed in the past three months. (45/edt)