Death by witchcraft?
Footballer apparently swallows “Gris-Gris” – and dies
Updated 12/25/2025 – 1:33 p.mReading time: 1 min.
Belief in witchcraft is still widespread in Africa. This superstition could also have something to do with the sudden death of a footballer.
Burundian footballer Igiraneza Aimé Guéric has died after suddenly collapsing during a second division match. The Burundian Football Association and the club confirmed this without going into further details. However, according to African media reports, the death of the Les Guêpiers du Lac player could be related to belief in witchcraft.
The accident occurred last Saturday at the National Technical Center in Ngaraga. During the game between Les Guêpiers du Lac and LLB Amasipiri Never Give Up, Guéric suddenly collapsed. Rescue workers resuscitated him on the field, but he then died in the ambulance. According to eye reports, Guéric is said to have swallowed a coin that he had in his mouth during the game. This was reported by “Sport News Africa”, among others.
The coin that was allegedly swallowed could be a “Gris-Gris” (or “Grigri”). This is a talisman that is said to protect the wearer from evil and bring good luck. According to the media, “Gris-Gris” are primarily used in witchcraft rituals practiced in West Africa. Accordingly, it is still widespread in Burundian football to consult local magicians and healers to predict the outcome of football games.