Witchcraft fear lead to the death of teen, court hears

A TEENAGER was tortured and drowned on Christmas Day because a relative believed he was a witch, the Old Bailey heard yesterday.

Kristy Bamu, 15, was in such pain after days of being attacked with sticks, a metal bar, hammer and chisel that he begged to die, jurors were told.

His brother-in-law Eric Bikubi was joined by his partner, Kristy’s sister Magalie, in the horror, said Brian Altman, QC, prosecuting.

His other siblings were forced to participate before they were all placed in the bath to be hosed down with cold water by Bikubi on 25 December, 2010.

Magalie Bamu and Bikubi, both 28, of Hathaway Crescent, Newham, east London, deny murdering Kristy. Bamu also denies two charges of causing actual bodily harm to her sisters. The youngsters had arrived from their home in Paris to spend the festive season with the couple.

Mr Altman said Kristy had 101 injuries and died from a combination of being beaten and drowning.

In the living room, police found Kristy’s brothers and sisters – brothers Yves, 22, and a 13-year-old, and sisters Kelly, 20, and an 11-year-old.

“All were … hysterical, terrified and soaking wet. Both girls appeared to be injured,” said Mr Altman.

Kelly said Bikubi accused Kristy, herself and their sister of “being witches or sorcerers”.