Senegalese religious leader arrested after 2 dead
Apr 24, 2012, 11:22 AM
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) – Authorities say they have arrested a powerful religious leader in Senegal and 11 of his followers after two people were beaten to death.
Cheikh Bethio Thioune’s arrest late Monday comes amid criticism after he married a seventh wife, three more than is allowed under Islam.
Thies Prosecutor Ibrahima Ndoye told journalists that Thioune was personally implicated in the death of two of his disciples late Sunday. He did not immediately have an attorney and no date has been set for a first court appearance.
Powerful religious leaders known as “marabouts” hold enormous influence in this mostly Muslim West African nation and Thioune has been politically active.
Scores of his followers have been gathering in front of the local courthouse in Thies in a show of support.
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