The Chadian government has stepped in to quell a growing wave of panic and violence sparked by unfounded claims of men losing their genitals through mysterious means. The phenomenon, dubbed “penis theft” by local media, has spread rapidly across major cities in Chad, fueled by social media rumors and videos.
The government condemned the belief as “completely irrational” and lacking any scientific or medical basis. “This phenomenon has caused a lot of harm,” said government spokesperson Gassim Cherrif. “People are being physically attacked, and the government cannot remain without reacting.”
Cherrif warned the population to prevent any “disorder” and announced that anyone spreading false information or physically attacking someone accused of penis theft would be arrested.
The police had previously called for restraint and promised investigations if new cases were reported. However, the situation escalated, with one man being lynched by an angry mob before being saved by police intervention.
The panic started in Moundou, in southern Chad, where four young men claimed to have lost their genitals through black magic. Despite no medical evidence supporting these claims, the rumors have spread rapidly, causing widespread fear and violence.