Law enforcement in the Hatlon Region of Tajikistan have apprehended 13 individuals posing as traditional healers and fortune tellers, despite lacking any medical or religious expertise. The suspects, 9 women and 4 men, were caught during a raid targeting their fraudulent activities. Exploiting people's trust and lack of knowledge, they deceived locals for personal gain.
Various items used for fortune-telling and "healing," along with photographs of individuals including local business and institution leaders, were seized as evidence during the investigation. The suspects have been charged with engaging in witchcraft and fortune-telling under Article 482 of Tajikistan's Administrative Code.
Penalties for these offenses can range from fines equivalent to 40 to 50 calculation indices (1 index equals 72 somoni). Repeat offenders within a year may face fines between 60 to 100 calculation indices. This crackdown follows a previous operation where five similar fraudsters were arrested in the same region.
The authorities continue to combat fraudulent practices, aiming to protect the public from exploitation.
