Witches arrested in Romania for alleged blackmail

[December 22, 2011]  BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) -- A court has ordered the arrest of two self-described witches on blackmail and extortion charges in a high-profile case involving a TV star and, reportedly, other public figures.

The Bucharest Appeals Court ruled Wednesday that Rada Minca and Roxana Lider should be arrested for 29 days pending trial.

Police spokesman Christian Ciocan says the two women approached public figures promising to help them overcome work or love difficulties and break curses. He says they initially charged very little, but as their victims became hooked on their services, increased their prices.

According to media reports, a well-known politician, a soccer player, TV stars and others are among the alleged victims.

[Associated Press]

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