The Maldives’ Minister for Environment, Climate Change, and Energy Fathimath Shamnaz Ali Saleem was suspended for allegedly practicing “black magic” on President Mohamed Muizzu, resulting in her arrest.
Although sorcery is not a crime in the Muslim-majority Maldives, it can lead to a six-month sentence under Islamic law. Black magic is often used for personal gain or to harm rivals.
In a unique incident, supporters of an opposition party were accused of throwing a “cursed rooster” at police during a raid on their headquarters.