Tanzania, April 7 -- Dar es Salaam. A recent wave of panic over alleged "genital theft" linked to witchcraft claims in Songwe Region has once again exposed the enduring role of superstition in fuelling violence, fear and loss of life in parts of Tanzania.

In recent days, residents of Tunduma Town in Momba District were gripped by rumours that some men had mysteriously lost or experienced the shrinking of their private parts through witchcraft. The claims triggered panic and mob violence, forcing authorities to intervene to restore order.

Songwe Regional Commissioner Jabir Makame warned residents against spreading such rumours, saying the government would not tolerate actions that threaten public safety.

Speaking on April 3 during a vis...