Ivory Coast's authorities say a majority of 21 children kidnapped in recent weeks have been found dead with their bodies mutilated, raising fears of a wave of ritual sacrifices ahead of elections.

Most of the children were found dead, mutilated, decapitated and without their genitals in various parts of Ivory Coast since December, police said.

“The phenomenon is real and unusual. Our services have registered 21 cases,” said police chief, Brindou M'Bia.

Security forces have been placed on high alert over the recent spate of child abductions, M'Bia added.

Many residents fear the ritualistic-style killings are linked to the presidential and possibly legislative elections scheduled to take place toward the end of the year.

Corrupt businessmen and politicians are believed to be using children’s body parts in mystical and occult practices, which are supposed to give them money and supernatural powers.

The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) has urged authorities to do everything possible to identify those responsible for the abductions.

Another spate of child abductions hit the country ahead of elections in 2010.

Rumors of kidnappings, notably of albinos, for ritual sacrifices have circulated during election years.

The West African nation has suffered a decade of political and military crisis.