A 14-year-old girl, Y. Marie Esther, has suffered severe burns to her buttocks and hips after being accused of sorcery in the village of Ahoutoué, Côte d'Ivoire. The incident occurred when her aunt, with whom she lives, took her to a traditional healer to perform a ritual to verify the allegations. The healer applied an inflammable substance to the girl's body and set it on fire, causing severe burns.
According to sources, Marie Esther has physical characteristics that differ from those of her peers, including unusual ear and foot shapes, as well as stunted growth. As an orphan, she lives with her maternal aunt, who had been caring for her. However, some family members began to accuse her of sorcery, leading her aunt to seek the healer's intervention. The ritual was carried out despite Marie Esther's pleas and screams.
The situation escalated, and Marie Esther was eventually rescued by neighbors who intervened and raised the alarm. Her condition necessitated immediate medical attention, and on September 15, she was removed from her family environment to receive support from the social center and socio-educational complex. An assessment of her family situation led to her being placed in a shelter under the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children.
The incident drew the attention of local authorities, including the prefect of Alépé, Takia Félicité Oulla, who visited Marie Esther at the Alépé general hospital. Following the incident, the authorities launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of Marie Esther's aunt and her husband. The traditional healer, however, remains at large and is being sought by the authorities.
The case highlights the persistent issue of violence and harmful practices against children, particularly girls, in Côte d'Ivoire. Accusations of sorcery often lead to violent and inhumane treatment, as seen in this case. Efforts by local authorities and social services aim to protect victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
The incident has sparked concern among local and national authorities, who are working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The case also underscores the need for continued education and awareness-raising on the dangers of such practices and the importance of protecting children's rights.
As Marie Esther receives support and care, her situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many children in Côte d'Ivoire. Authorities and social services continue to work towards creating a safer environment for all children, and efforts to combat violence and harmful practices against children remain a priority.
Key points
- Authorities have arrested Marie Esther's aunt and her husband in connection with the incident.
- The traditional healer responsible for the ritual remains at large and is being sought by authorities.
- Marie Esther is receiving support and care from social services and a shelter under the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children.
