In most developed countries, cannibalism is frowned upon. But cannibalism is still alive and well in several parts of the world, and it’s definitely no joke. Believe it or not, groups and individuals practise this ritual quite often and their stories are even more bone-chilling than you’d think.
People turn to cannibalism for a number of reasons, ranging from cultural ceremonies to a desperate need. Whether legal or otherwise, the practice continues and here are the nine hot spots where cannibals can dine among friends.
1. India
The Aghori, a sect of Indian Monks, perform cannibalistic rituals for spiritual enlightenment. The group drink from human skull bowls and cover their body in ashes of human remains. They use only the bodies of people who have already died.
2. Fiji
Fiji is famed for its long-running history of cannibalism and was even dubbed ‘Cannibal Island’. The practices have almost died out in recent years with the exception of the Naihehe Caves, home to the last human-eating group on the island.
3. Liberia
Following the First Liberian Civil War, Doctors Without Borders found evidence of cannibalistic practices which they sent over to Amnesty International.
Rather than being investigated the evidence was covered up, with Liberia’s current Secretary-General saying: “what they do with the bodies after human rights violations are committed is not part of our mandate or concern.”
4. Rotenburg, Germany
Germany’s Armin Meiwes fulfilled his dream of consuming human flesh by placing an ad for a willing volunteer.
Luckily for him, he tracked down willing 43-year-old, Bernd Brandes. The duo dined on Brandes’ genitals before Armin stabbed him with a 12-inch knife. He was later arrested for murder as cannibalism is not a crime in Germany.
5. Florida
A naked man was shot by police in Miami in 2012 as he refused to stop eating his victim’s face. Rudy Eugene devoured Ronald Poppo on a Florida freeway, leaving him with only one eye and severe facial injuries.
