By Lauryn M’banga

A 40-year-old woman has been charged with murder in Kasungu following accusations that she beat four children to death during healing rituals.

Kasungu Police Station spokesperson Joseph Kachikho said the suspect, Ireen Banda, was instructed by her four-year old daughter, who is a prophetess, to whip the children as part of a cleansing ritual.

“The four children were suffering from sickle cell anaemia and down syndrome.

“The children were heavily whipped in the head and all over their bodies which led to their deaths,” Kachikho said.

Ireen Banda will appear before the court soon to answer to the charges levelled against her.