Traditional Healer Arrested for Sexual Assault of Youth Soccer Players
Local police have not yet released the suspect's name pending formal charges. The victims are receiving counselling and support services.
CHONGWE, Zambia - A traditional healer faces criminal charges after allegedly sexually assaulting five girls from a local youth football team, authorities reported Tuesday, writes Winston Mwale.
The victims, aged 12 to 14, were lured to the healer's residence in Muluuko Village with promises of helping their team win an upcoming tournament, according to the Men's Network for Gender and Development, a local advocacy group.
The abuse was uncovered when members of the organisation's Boys Network investigated suspicious activity and alerted authorities.
The healer allegedly instructed the girls to meet him individually in a secluded area late at night while carrying footballs.
"He demanded the girls remove their clothing and threatened them to keep silent," said Nelson Banda, National Coordinator of the Men's Network.
"All five victims were assaulted throughout the night before being told to return to sleep and prepare for their tournament."
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about sexual exploitation in youth sports.
Last year, the Boys Network intervened in 12 cases of forced child marriage, successfully returning the affected girls to school.
Local police have not yet released the suspect's name pending formal charges. The victims are receiving counselling and support services.