By Tim Binnall
A staggering 50 people accused of practicing witchcraft in Angola perished after drinking a peculiar potion in the hopes of clearing their names. The strange series of deaths, which were revealed by authorities last week, reportedly occurred earlier this year in the town of Camacupa. The unfortunate individuals, local official Luzia Filemone explained, were suspected of being sorcerers and, in turn, "were forced to drink this mysterious liquid which, according to traditional healers, proves whether or not a person practices witchcraft."
A police spokesperson called the troubling anti-sorcery rituals a "widespread practice" which has recently been on the rise in the country where witchcraft is not illegal, though it is deeply frowned upon and feared. Alas, for the people who died from consuming the curious herbal concoction, known as Mbulungo, their accusers will undoubtedly consider themselves correct in levying the charges due to the powers ascribed to the drink. That said, one imagines that those same people could wind up regretting their actions in the future if the literal witch hunt turn towards them.