African albino girl shot and beheaded

An 11-year-old albino girl from Swaziland has been shot dead while washing clothers at a river with friends. The man, who was wearing a balaclava, shot her in the back before dragging her away. Her headless body was found upriver a short time later. 

The Telegraph reports that the murder is the latest in a series of albino killings in sub-saharan Africa where sufferers of the rare skin pigmentation are concentrated. Earlier this year, another 11-year-old albino child was killed close to the same spot and her hand removed. 

Police believe both children were targeted because of a belief by local witch doctors that the blood and body parts of albinos (who lack pigment in their eyes, hair and skin) can bring good luck and fortune when used in black magic potions. 

Thanks to Cecilia Shandeva for this story.