'The crowd shouted that we'd stolen someone's genitals' - deadly rumours spread on social media
Summary
More than 80 people have been killed in six African countries since October 2025 after false rumors spread on social media about "genital theft," where people believe that a touch can cause men's genitals to shrink or disappear. These accusations have caused violent attacks by mobs against innocent men, fueled by long-standing fears and superstitions.Key Facts
- More than 80 deaths occurred from October 2025 to mid-2026 due to rumors of genital theft in six African nations.
- The myth claims a simple touch can make a man’s penis and testicles disappear or shrink.
- These rumors are linked to old beliefs in witchcraft and fear, amplified by social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook.
- The mistrust and violence began in the Democratic Republic of Congo and spread to countries including Tanzania, Zambia, Burundi, Mozambique, Angola, Malawi, and Kenya.
- In Tanzania’s Tunduma town, a mechanic named Boniface Mgala was attacked by a mob and hospitalized, while his friend was killed over these false claims.
- Another man in Tunduma was beaten and set on fire after being accused of genital theft, with police arriving only after the attack.
- The spread of videos showing these accusations and attacks has increased fear and panic in affected communities.
- Local people now face challenges like injuries, loss of work, and trauma caused by these violent misunderstandings.
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