The Atheist Book Club discussion
Atheism + Skepticism
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Demand an end to brutal ‘sorcery’ killings in Papua New Guinea
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Incredible progress on ending ‘sorcery’ murders in Papua New Guinea - http://www.amnesty.org.au/iar/comment...
Last week Helen Rumbali, a women's rights advocate and former school teacher, was beheaded in front of her community in Papua New Guinea after three days of unspeakable torture. Police stood by and watched, reporting that they were unable to intervene to stop the angry mob.
Why was she murdered? Helen was accused of 'sorcery', and brutal attacks like this one are not uncommon. The law and police inaction effectively condone such violence. The "Sorcery Act" in PNG law offers a reduced sentence if a perpetrator of violent crime uses allegations of 'sorcery' as an excuse -- even for murder.
Right now another woman and her two daughters have been captured at Lopele, Bana District Southern Bougainville. She has been accused of sorcery. We are extremely concerned for the safety of these three women.
Demand Papua New Guinean authorities act urgently to stop 'sorcery' killings.