Fake pir robs Layyah family in guise of eliminating ‘evilish powers’

Five members of the family fall consciousness after taking poisonous drink from ‘spiritual healer’

ISLAMABAD: A fake pir deprived a family of its belongings and fled with the booty after giving poisonous drink to five members of the family in Layyah, Punjab on Wednesday.

The victims fell unconsciousness after consuming the toxic drink and were taken to a nearby hospital, according to police sources. One of them is said to be in critical condition.

The fake Amil (conjurer) was invited to eliminate evil spirits from the house, a private news cahnnel reported.

Taking advantage of the victims’ unconsciousness, the conjurer looted them of valuables and escaped from the scene.

Neighbours, who had gathered at the scene, appealed the authorities concerned to take strict action against such fraudsters.



A similar incident took place in Muzaffargarh’s Chowk Sarwar Shaheed area on March 15 while another fake faith healer was arrested by police in Multan’s Shujabad area On February 22.

Many in Pakistan and similar primitive cultures believe faith healers can save them from possession, evil spirits and diseases, without any evidence.

Wall-chalked advertisements for these pirs, aamils, and black magic practitioners adorn walls all over the country’s cities and villages. They promise the return of estranged lovers, marriage with the person of your choice, children for childless parents, removal of evil spirits and cures for all ailments.