Lilongwe - The United States Embassy in Malawi has warned its citizens against visiting Blantyre among other several districts following violent protests over a vampire scare in the country.
At least seven people have been killed, hundreds injured and property damaged since September in protests over the vampire scare.
In September, the US Embassy issued a travel warning to its citizens against visiting certain districts in Malawi, and on Thursday it extended its warning.
“The U.S. Embassy has advised its staff there is potential for additional unrest in and around Blantyre and Zomba Districts over the next several days – particularly in the evening hours,” reads in part the warning from the US Embassy.
“While these disturbances are not directed at U.S. citizens, you should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.”
Malawian president, Peter Mutharika has called on the clergy to intervene through prayers to end the myths of blood sucking that have rocked parts of the country.
But this has done little or nothing to calm the tempers.
The US Embassy added: “Additionally, U.S. Embassy personnel now require explicit permission to travel to Thyolo, Chiradzulu, Nsanje, and Phalombe Districts, as well as rural parts of Blantyre and Zomba districts, due to reports of intimidation, high tensions, and vigilante justice in those areas stemming from the same rumours.”
