Amolatar, Uganda — The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Amolatar, Francis Okello Odoki Rwotlonyo, has warned witch doctors and fake pastors against extorting money from the local population under the pretense of removing charms.
Rwotlonyo cautioned individuals posing as traditional healers and religious leaders—especially those without official authorization from the RDC’s office—to desist from such practices or face legal consequences.
He revealed that security agencies have discovered cases where some witch doctors and self-proclaimed pastors are engaged in extortion, charging residents exorbitant fees while claiming to remove harmful charms. He noted that many residents are being misled instead of seeking services from legitimate shrines and recognized places of worship.
According to the RDC, some of these individuals are allegedly manipulating communities by claiming to eliminate dangerous traditional amulets from homes across the district.
Speaking from his office in Amolatar Town Council on Thursday afternoon, Rwotlonyo addressed members of the Kumam cultural team, led by Papa Rafail Otaya, also known as Won Ateker of the Kumam Chiefdom. He further warned that some witch doctors and fake pastors are relocating to Amolatar under the guise of cleansing homes of alleged witchcraft.
In response, Papa Rafail Otaya thanked the RDC for the warm reception accorded to his delegation. He noted that the cultural group aims to promote development initiatives, particularly by identifying disadvantaged students for sponsorship support.
He also expressed satisfaction with the peaceful coexistence between the Kumam and Lango communities, emphasizing that the two groups continue to live in harmony without discrimination. He called for continued unity, love, and collective development in Amolatar District, noting that such initiatives are meant to benefit everyone.
Rwotlonyo added that the Kumam people are spread across five districts—Amolatar, Dokolo, Kaberamaido, Soroti, and Kalaki. He further noted that Won Ateker of the Kumam Chiefdom represents a community of over 57,000 members.
