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Broomstick-flying witches face arrest

By T.K. Randall
May 15, 2013 · Comment icon 99 comments

Image Credit: CC 2.0 Vladimer Shioshvili
Aviation authorities in Swaziland have aimed tough penalties at witches caught flying over 150m.
The bizarre aviation laws highlight the degree to which authorities in the tiny southern African country take witchcraft seriously. Broomsticks used by witches are considered similar to other heavier-than-air transportation devices and anyone caught flying one above 150m will be arrested and subjected to a hefty fine. According to the law, flying below the 150m mark isn't a problem.

The laws were reiterated following the arrest of private investigator Hunter Shongwe after he was caught flying a toy helicopter with a camera attached to it within Swazi airspace. He was later charged with operating an unregistered aircraft and for failing to appear before his chief to be questioned by authorities.
Witches’ broomsticks are considered similar to any heavier-than-air transportation device that is airborne, reports The Star. "A witch on a broomstick should not fly above the [150-metre] limit,” Civil Aviation Authority marketing and corporate affairs director Sabelo Dlamini told the newspaper.


Source: Times Live | Comments (99)




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Recent comments on this story
Comment icon #90 Posted by libstaK 12 years ago
Witchcraft is one of those words that gain and lose in translation. What is a "witch" in one culture is only loosely related to what is a "witch" in another. Vietnam doesn't really have anything I can think of that might correspond to African or European witches. We do, however, have neighborhood party chairwomen living in most neighborhoods. Oh Frank, you could be buying a whole lotta trouble talking like that about your local constituents
Comment icon #91 Posted by Frank Merton 12 years ago
I couldn't help myself.
Comment icon #92 Posted by third_eye 12 years ago
The Hanoi HAnnah action League is assembling as we speak ....
Comment icon #93 Posted by Frank Merton 12 years ago
That brings to my mind the question of why "witch" has such negative connotations while "wizard" or "warlock" do not.
Comment icon #94 Posted by third_eye 12 years ago
That brings to my mind the question of why "witch" has such negative connotations while "wizard" or "warlock" do not. that carries a bit of a sexist scent Frank ... but this Warlock is cool ......... like to see Hollywood mess this one up ... link
Comment icon #95 Posted by Frank Merton 12 years ago
No scent about it; the distinction in English is clearly sexist.
Comment icon #96 Posted by starchild1976 12 years ago
Witches brooms aren't even used for flying. They're used for wiping malarky away.
Comment icon #97 Posted by Lex540 12 years ago
sweet where can I have one
Comment icon #98 Posted by Sundew 12 years ago
Makes one wonder exactly how often flying witches on brooms have been a problem for aircraft. Sucking one into the jet intake of an L1011 could ruin your whole day. Of course if you only maim one by hitting her with, say, the tail section or wing tip, she will no doubt sue you in court, or cast a spell on the airline causing it to lose business by charging extra for luggage. And remember, there are those who would have us believe that all cultures are created equal, however irrational.
Comment icon #99 Posted by angi chiesa 12 years ago
Well I live in Thailand,ny girlfriend is Burmese.The old crone next door is from the Shan tribe.So I am told every day that she is a witch,and being Shan makes her an evil witch.If the washing machine tears some clothing,the witch did it etc etc. Never a day goes by without some trouble.Guess who makes it. Now this old lady has brooms made from twigs. I keep watching,but have seen no flying. I cannot convince my girl otherwise


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