Meghalaya: Octogenarian buried alive for 'practising witchcraft', 8 held

An investigation by the police revealed the man was buried alive in the village after he was accused of practising witchcraft and casting a spell on his niece who had been ailing for the past few months.

Shillong (Meghalaya): In a shocking incident, an 80-year-old man from West Khasi Hills was allegedly buried alive by kin which suspected him of indulging in witchcraft, the police said on Tuesday.

The deceased was identified as Morris Marngar. Police eight persons in connection with the case.

The police exhumed the body from a five-feet deep pit. According to the police, the limbs of the body were tied and face was covered with a cloth when the body was recovered.

Meanwhile, Home minister Lakhmen Rynbui said: "It is very sad that this incident happened. The law can take care of all the crimes that are happening. Law and order are in place and an investigation is underway."

The FIR registered in the case noted that a group of people including four of his nephews took away Morris on the pretext of some important work. However, Morris' family sought police assistance when he failed to return.

Following an investigation, it was revealed that Morris was buried alive in the village after he was accused of practising witchcraft and casting a spell on his niece who had been ailing for the past few months.

Further investigation is underway.

(ANI)