On June 24, 2023, in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, a woman named Korai was brutally attacked by a group of men seeking revenge for the death of a baby girl. The men accused Korai of being responsible for the child’s death through sorcery, leading to severe violence against her.
- Violence against women for alleged sorcery
- Korai survived brutal attack by mob
- Belief in black magic persists in society
- Economic frustration fuels societal tensions
- Rising incidents of sorcery-related violence
Violence related to accusations of sorcery is a significant issue in Papua New Guinea, where beliefs in black magic persist. Korai, 33, survived a brutal attack when men dragged her from her home, broke her hands, and burned her with hot metal bars. Her son’s intervention was crucial in alerting the police, ultimately saving her life. Such incidents reflect a disturbing rise in violence fueled by societal beliefs in evil spirits and witchcraft.
Research indicates that these violent episodes are increasing in certain areas of the country. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Widespread belief in sorcery and black magic.
- Limited economic opportunities leading to frustration and tension.
- Increased foreign investment juxtaposed with persistent poverty.
The societal changes in Papua New Guinea create a volatile environment where accusations of sorcery can lead to mob violence. Many victims, like Korai, face severe injuries and trauma, and the fear of further attacks often silences them. The government and local organizations are working to address these issues, but the deeply rooted beliefs in sorcery pose significant challenges.
The case of Korai underscores the urgent need for intervention and education to combat the violence stemming from sorcery accusations in Papua New Guinea. As societal tensions rise, addressing the root causes of these beliefs and the resulting violence is essential for the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals.
