Two individuals accused of exploiting people’s religious beliefs through alleged sorcery were arrested in Balkh and Bamyan provinces

Two individuals were arrested in Balkh and Bamyan provinces by officials (Muhtasibs) of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue, Prevention of Vice, and Hearing the Complaints of IEA, on charges of exploiting people’s religious beliefs and receiving money in exchange for performing spiritual healing rituals and prayers.
Officials (Muhtasibs) of the ministry in the two provinces said that the individuals had been collecting money from citizens in exchange for performing spiritual healing rituals, taking advantage of people’s religious beliefs and convictions.
They were identified and arrested following complaints from local residents and in coordination with community members.
During their identification and arrest, various items and books were also found in their possession, which were allegedly used for magical and sorcery-related practices.
The ministry officials (Muhtasibs) emphasized that exploiting people’s religious beliefs and convictions for financial gain can lead to deception and harm to citizens and create opportunities for the exploitation of people’s religious sentiments.
It is worth mentioning that, following preliminary investigations by the ministry’s officials (Muhtasibs), the cases of the accused individuals were referred to judicial and legal authorities for further proceedings and to ensure justice.