AJMAN // An Indian housemaid has been deported after her Emirati employer reported her to the authorities on suspicion of practising sorcery against her and her family.

F A, a 33-year-old housewife, hired the maid from India around a year ago, according to the family’s lawyer, adding that not long after the woman began working at F A’s home, she and her three children began to complain of constantly feeling sick and tired and would also hear strange voices around their home.

When the maid refused to carry out her duties around the house, F A discovered pills and medicines as well as incense, veils and dried fruits belonging to the maid. She also found bottles containing clumps of hair in the maid’s bathroom.

F A contacted police after describing the items to a religious cleric who told her they were used in sorcery and witchcraft.

The maid denied any wrongdoing but was reported to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs and deported.

roueiti@thenational.ae