Tajik authorities continue the hunt for “sorcerers” and “healers”

In the Khatlon region of Tajikistan, law enforcement agencies have detained 13 sorcerers and healers, accusing them of fraud, reports the regional Department of Internal Affairs. According to the source, 9 women and 4 men were detained during the raid.

“It was established that these individuals, lacking any medical or religious knowledge, posed as folk healers for personal gain. They exploited the trust and ignorance of people,” the agency’s statement said.

During the inspection, some items used by the detainees for divination and “healing” were also discovered and seized as evidence, along with photographs of individuals, including local business and institution leaders. Protocols were drawn up against the mentioned individuals for practicing sorcery and divination under Article 482 of the RT Code on Administrative Offenses.

This article allows for a fine ranging from 40 to 50 calculation indicators (1 indicator is 72 somoni). In the case of repeated offenses within one year, the fine may range from 60 to 100 calculation indicators. Earlier, in the Khatlon region, the police detained five more sorcerers and healers for the same reason: for fraud. It remains unclear how the authorities distinguish between fraud and non-fraud.