Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Chechen Republic, has ordered a crackdown on sorcery, psychic and faith healing, calling those who participate in such practices "charlatans." During a meeting in Grozny with municipal leaders, Kadyrov claimed that false healers and wizards are "banned by Islam," and will not bring Chechen citizens any relief from sickness or suffering. Kadyrov warned those who engage in sorcery, faith healing, and psychic practices that they will feel the force of Chechnya's security services. Chenchya's citizens who seek the services of these practitioners might also face detention and arrest by security forces.
The citizens of the republic hold a variety of folk beliefs. Many believe that evil djinn have been attracted to the region because of the deaths and destruction from prior wars in Chechnya.