'It remained unclear what had prompted the witchcraft allegations'. Picture (a mock-up) courtesy tesey.livejournal.com

Her acquaintances had decided she was 'witch', prompting them to burn her alive to exorcize the devil from her through fire. Police were tipped off and saved her 'not a moment too soon' said reports. The alleged attackers were a 41 year old woman in Zabaikalsky Region and her male companion.

After deciding the woman was a 'witch' they went to her house, kidnapped her and took her to an abandoned building where they fired up the stove.

Police say an investigation has been launched. The 41 year old woman has been admitted to psychiatric hospital. Both she and her male companion have criminal records.

'It remained unclear what had prompted the witchcraft allegations,' reported RIA Novosti.