Man Detained In Dubai For Allegedly Carrying Witchcraft-related Items

A man arriving from an African nation was held by Dubai Customs agents, after finding items connected to witchcraft at the international airport.

A monkey's hand and spells hidden in the traveler's luggage were among the many magical objects the alert inspectors, who knew exactly what their responsibilities were, found during their inspection.

A plastic box containing a live snake was found hidden among the goods when the tourist, suspicious of foul play, had a thorough examination.

A closer examination revealed other witchcraft-related artifacts, including a dead bird, a monkey's hand, eggs wrapped in cotton for magic, spells, talismans, and a variety of instruments made out of leftover paper.

The Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai received the seized goods.

“Inspectors found a snake wrapped in a plastic bag, meticulously hidden amidst the clothing,” said Khalid Ahmed, senior manager of Dubai Customs' passenger operations division at Terminal 1.

“We eventually identified him as an African man whose intention was to practice witchcraft, but he will be subjected to further scrutiny,” he explained.

The Islamic Department and the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai received the items, and it was later verified that they were intended for use in black magic rituals.

However, he pointed out that Article 316 of the UAE penal code forbids performing black magic or trying to conceal sorcery equipment; the penalties for doing so include fines or imprisonment.

“We understand the risks associated with the use of such items in black magic and deceiving others.

“Items potentially associated with sorcery or black magic are strictly prohibited, and all travelers' bags undergo X-ray screening,” Ahmed added.