Woman Arrested For Chaining Stepson Over Witchcraft Allegation

A woman identified as Peremoboere Botu has been arrested by men of the Bayelsa State Police Command for chaining her 9-year-old boy stepson identified as Godday Simon Aprebo to a pole over allegation of being a wizard and subjecting him to inhumane treatment.

The lady who was arrested by operatives of Ekeki Police Division, had accused the boy of using voodoo against his family, causing misfortunes for his father and also trying to kill him.

The incident reportedly occurred at Agboli Street at Okutukutu area of Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state.

Neighbors told newsmen that the victim’s stepmother and biological father chained him to prevent him from running away, alleging that he is a wizard.

They also subjected him to series of punishments to force him to confess to the alleged wizardry.

Daily Trust reported that the boy's father identified as Simon Afrebo, said to be a prophet, had since absconded.

Police spokesman in Bayelsa State, SP Asinim Butswat, who confirmed the incident, said a discreet investigation is ongoing.