Cases of ritual child abuse linked to beliefs in witchcraft are being reported to police in increasing numbers, it has been revealed.
A total of 27 allegations have been made to Scotland Yard in the past year, including two claims of rape, a child being swung around and smacked in the head "to drive out the devil" and others being dunked in water.
Child killings including the murder of 15-year-old Kristy Bamu, who was tortured and drowned by his sister and her boyfriend in 2010, and the death of Victoria Climbie have been linked to such beliefs.
And the number of cases of ritualistic or faith-based abuse of children reported to the Metropolitan Police has increased every year over the past decade.
A total of 24 were passed to the force in 2013; after 19 in 2012 and nine in 2011 - with 148 cases referred to the Met since 2004.
Police were due to meet a group including teachers, child care and health workers to discuss how to tackle an issue that officers say is rarely reported.
Detective Superintendent Terry Sharpe said: "Abuse linked to belief is a horrific crime which is condemned by people of all cultures, communities and faiths.
"A number of high-profile investigations brought the issue of ritual abuse and witchcraft into the headlines but it is important that professionals are clear about the signs to look for," he said.
"Families or carers genuinely believe that the victim has been completely taken over by the devil or an evil spirit, which is often supported by someone who within the community has portrayed themselves as an authority on faith and belief.
"Regardless of the beliefs of the abusers, child abuse is child abuse."
Simon Bass from the Churches' Child Protection Advisory Service said his group was "not remotely surprised" at the figures.
"We are pleased that the Metropolitan Police has undertaken such great work in this area, but we are convinced that this form of abuse is hidden, and that the statutory agencies across the UK are facing similar situations," he said.
Kristy Bamu's death was one of a handful of cases where an apparent belief in witchcraft has been linked to extreme violence against children.
He was tortured and beaten before he drowned in a bath at his sister's flat in east London on Christmas Day 2010.
Magalie Bamu and her boyfriend Eric Bikubi became convinced that he was possessed by kindoki, or witchcraft, and was trying to harm or control another child in the family.
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