Dr Keith K. Silika

Dr Keith K. Silika is a Lecturer in Police Studies at the University of Salford and a former police officer with extensive experience in community policing, safeguarding, artificial intelligence, and criminal investigation. He holds a PhD in Forensic Archaeology, specialising in interdisciplinary approaches to clandestine burials and human rights investigations in Zimbabwe.

Keith’s research focuses on witchcraft accusations, ritual crimes, and the intersection of belief systems and forensic practice, with an emphasis on ethical and evidence-based investigation. 

Dr Silika has published widely in academic and professional outlets, including Policing: A Journal of Policy and Practice, The Conversation, and The Skeptic, and has presented internationally on ritual crime, AI in policing, and safeguarding harmful practices. He is an active contributor to the International Network Against Witchcraft Accusations and Ritual Abuse (INAWARA), supporting global efforts to address harmful practices through research, training, and innovative investigative tools such as the SPIRIT application.