Zambian authorities have arrested two men accused of using witchcraft in an alleged attempt to harm President Hakainde Hichilema, police confirmed on Friday.
The suspects, identified as 42-year-old Mozambican Jasten Mabulesse Candunde and 43-year-old Zambian village chief Leonard Phiri, were apprehended in the capital, Lusaka.
Police reported that the pair were found with “assorted charms,” including a live chameleon, and described them as practising witchdoctors. According to the statement, their mission was to target the president using these charms.
The suspects are alleged to have been hired by the brother of an opposition Member of Parliament currently on trial for robbery, attempted murder, and escaping custody.
Both men face charges of animal cruelty and are expected to appear in court soon.
