Some were killed by stray bullets. Others were slain because they belonged to a particular ethnic group or were mistaken for enemies. One village where 150 Witnesses lived was destroyed by fire. In other villages dozens of houses and some Kingdom Halls were burned down. Deprived of homes and possessions, Witnesses fled to other areas and were helped by fellow worshipers there.
Hunger follows war, as crops are ruined, food reserves are looted, and supply lines are cut off.
Available food is expensive. The majority could afford to eat only one meal a day. Of course, disease follows food shortages. Malnutrition weakens the body's ability to ward off malaria, diarrheic diseases, and gastric problems. Particularly do children suffer and die.