LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The home of former Secretary to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), Colleen Zamba, was on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 raided by police officers in a search for foreign currency, according to her lawyer, George Kadzipatike.
At least 25 police officers from the Fiscal Police, accompanied by police dogs, stormed Zamba’s house in Area 14, Lilongwe, and conducted a six-hour search for evidence of money laundering.
A search warrant, dated March 31, 2026, and issued by the Mkukula First Grade Magistrate Court in Lilongwe, authorised the police to investigate and search Zamba’s premises for proceeds of money laundering.
The warrant, obtained by Superintendent Henry Moyo, specifically authorised the police to search House number 168 in Area 14, Lilongwe, which is believed to belong to Zamba, although it is registered under the name Babani Mandiza.
The police officers searched the entire house but failed to find any incriminating evidence, according to Kadzipatike.
Kadzipatike has condemned the police action, saying his client is being “unnecessarily molested” and that the authorities are rushing to act on rumours rather than concrete evidence of wrongdoing.
“The police officers searched everywhere in the house but found nothing incriminating. I would urge the police to always have concrete evidence before they rush to obtain draconian court orders such as warrants of arrest,” Kadzipatike said.
The lawyer added that ultimately, it will be Malawians who will pay damages for such negligent conduct, implying that the police action was unjustified and may have caused unnecessary distress to Zamba and her family.
The police spokesperson, Lael Chimtembo, is yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter.
The search of Zamba’s home is the latest development in a series of high-profile investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering involving senior government officials in Malawi.
But why this search warrant when the same state allowed Zamba to escape to South Africa while she is needed most in Amaryllis Hotel purchase probe?
Isn’t this staged stunt to be seen working while the state shares the same bed with Zamba?
Malawians are tired with this hypocritical approach on serious matters of national concern….
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Police Service in Lilongwe have arrested two Chinese nationals and four Malawians for illegal cyber fraud hub operation.
The law enforcers have therefore dismantle a suspected online fraud ring.
Central West Region Police spokesperson Foster Benjamin has identified the suspects including Chinese nationals Leung Guoh, 37, and Lin Chao, 40, alongside four Malawians: Pride Ntundu, 26; Hope Lipipa, 29; Hawa Chinula, 23; and Enosi Chisime, 25.
Benjamin explains, “The group is believed to have orchestrated cyber scams targeting victims outside Malawi, siphoning thousands of dollars through coordinated online operations.
“During the operation, detectives confiscated 32 desktop computers, 18 internet routers, a CCTV server, a printer, and 27 notebooks allegedly detailing hacking methods and Telegram profiles of intended targets”.
The publicist adds, “The setup, investigators suggest, functioned like a digital factory floor, churning out deception instead of products”.
During the operation, the police also rescued 18 young Malawians who were reportedly lured with promises of employment, only to be compelled to take part in the fraudulent activities.
Benjamin therefore disclosed that investigations are continuing as police work to establish the full scope of the network and identify any additional suspects connected to the scheme.
This is an open letter addressing Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito and entired President Peter Mutharika’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration on how The Malawi Police is being used to intimidate the press including THE MARAVI POST EDITORIAL TEAM in Malawi.
The Peter Mutharika administration must take seriously the Malawi Police officers’ misconduct against freedom of the press in Malawi.
Subject: Seeking Intervention on Police Intimidation and Abuse of Journalistic Freedom Against The Maravi Post Editorial Team
TO: Hon. Peter Mukhito, MP Minister of Homeland Security
COPIED TO:
Hon. Paulos Norman Chisale, Deputy Minister
State House
Civil Society Organisations
United States Embassy, Lilongwe
Malawi Human Rights Commission
DPP Administrative Secretary
Chief Secretary to Government
MISA Malawi
Ministry of Information
Malawi Parliament
RE: POLICE MISTREATMENT AND INTIMIDATION OF THE MARAVI POST EDITORIAL TEAM (Barbara Mwandira vs The Maravi Post Administrators)
We write to formally seek your urgent intervention regarding what we believe is systematic police intimidation, abuse of process, and violation of constitutional freedoms against The Maravi Post editorial team, allegedly instigated by Ms Barbara Mwandira, a junior producer at Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC).
Barbra Mwandira victiming those deemed to be former regime (MCP) sympathisers at MBC
This matter raises grave concerns for freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the professional independence of journalists in Malawi, which are birthrights of all citizens under our Constitution.
Background
On 13 November 2025, The Maravi Post Facebook platform published two documents circulating in the public domain.
These documents related to allegations of misconduct by Barbara Mwandira, including claims that she had victimised fellow MBC employees following a regime change from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
One of the documents was a formal letter authored by MBC reporter Mayeso Chinkhadzula, addressed to MBC management, alleging misconduct by Ms Barbara Mwandira.
This letter had already found its way onto social media prior to our publication.
Mayeso Chikhadzula letter complaining to MBC Administration over Barbra Mwandira misconduct
The publication in question was not an editorial article, but a reproduction of documents already circulating in the public interest.
Editorial Structure of The Maravi Post
The Maravi Post is a registered and credible online publication with a clearly defined editorial hierarchy comprising editors, managers, reporters, contributors, correspondents, and administrators, headed by the Managing Editor/Publisher.
As per professional journalistic practice, any editorial concern or grievance must first be referred to the Publisher, not individual staff members.
Abuse of Police Powers and Intimidation
Upon seeing the documents posted, Barbara Mwandira bypassed all editorial engagement and instead rushed to the Malawi Police Service, demanding the arrest of Maravi Post administrators and editors.
She alleged cybercrime, selectively focusing on one document while deliberately ignoring the Chinkhadzula letter, which was central to the matter.
Unprofessional Conduct by Police (Cyber Crime Unit)
A police officer, Mr Chimwemwe Magawa (+265 993 55 20 52) summoned The Maravi Post Country Manager, Mr Lloyd M’bwana, for questioning regarding a post he neither authored nor approved.
When Mr M’bwana reasonably referred the officer to the Publisher for editorial resolution, the officer refused and issued threats of arrest, an action wholly inconsistent with professional policing and media-law standards.
Despite assurances of a “formal chat”, police actions escalated into intimidation, including repeated phone calls, threats, and pressure to produce staff members, even after the matter had been committed to court.
Arbitrary Arrest of Contributor
On 5 December 2025, police officers travelled from Lilongwe to Blantyre, where they arrested contributor Mr Jones Gadama, allegedly at the instigation of Ms Mwandira.
Mr Gadama was transported overnight, detained at Lingadzi Police Station, denied communication, and had his phone confiscated (which remains in police custody).
This arrest occurred without prior summons, without editorial engagement, and while the post in question had already been temporarily removed in good faith.
Such conduct bears the hallmarks of police overreach and intimidation, not lawful investigation.
Coercive and Unlawful Conditions
Following intervention by MISA Malawi, Mr Gadama was released on bail subject to conditions dictated by Barbara Mwandira, including:
That Maravi Post administrators present themselves to police
That the publication disclose its sources
That Maravi Post pay all Ms Mwandira’s travel and police-related costs
These demands are legally untenable, violate journalistic source protection, and amount to private control of state law-enforcement mechanisms.
Continued Harassment and Fear
Despite the matter being before the courts, police officers—particularly Mr Magawa—continue to threaten arrests of Maravi Post staff.
Mr Gadama is compelled to travel fortnightly from Blantyre to Lilongwe to report for bail, despite the availability of police stations in Blantyre—causing unnecessary financial and psychological strain.
This raises a fundamental question: Is this lawful policing, or punishment by inconvenience?
Constitutional and Legal Framework
We respectfully remind your office that:
Section 35 of the Constitution of Malawi guarantees freedom of expression
Section 36 guarantees freedom of the press
Journalists have a constitutional right to protect sources
Police powers must not be weaponised to silence the media
Freedom of expression and press freedom are not privileges—they are birthrights in a democratic society.
Wider Concern: Pattern of Abuse
This is not an isolated incident. In 2024, under the previous administration, The Maravi Post faced similar police intimidation following reporting on alleged fraud at the National Intelligence Bureau. Arrests were later deemed unjustified.
The recurrence of such incidents suggests a systemic problem in police handling of media-related matters.
Grave Concern
We are deeply troubled by reports that Barbara Mwandira is said to be a former police officer, raising serious questions about undue influence, conflict of interest, and manipulation of law-enforcement processes by a junior staff member at a public broadcaster.
If journalists can be arrested, transported at night, and silenced on the instruction of a junior public employee, then no journalist in Malawi is safe.
Our Appeal
We therefore respectfully request:
Immediate intervention to halt police harassment of The Maravi Post
Independent review of police conduct in this matter
Protection of journalists from intimidation and abuse
Clear guidance to police on constitutional media freedoms
Yours faithfully, Elwin Mandowa Publisher The Maravi Post Cell: +1 678-592-7551 Email: emandowa@maravipost.com
Lloyd M’bwana Country Manager The Maravi Post Lilongwe, Malawi Mobile: +265 0884 235 871 / +265 0999 612 496
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Police Service in Dedza have arrested three suspects in connection with the murder of Sibusiso Mponda, a transport engineer with Central East African Railways (CEAR), and Lupiya, a minibus driver from Zomba.
The suspects have been identified as Kennedy Demson (29), Barbra Mkwezalamba, a woman (25) and Witmam Elisa (19).
National Police deputy publicist Alfred Chinthere told this publication that the deceased Mponda was driving a CEAR vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series, from Lilongwe to Blantyre on the evening of the incident, which was January 25, 2026.
“When he reached Bunda Turnoff near Mount Meru Filling Station, he reportedly picked up four passengers who were seeking transport (matola).
“Among them were the three suspects. The fourth passenger was Lupiya, who had travelled to Lilongwe to deliver a minibus on behalf of his employer,” says Chinthere.
He added, “The time of departure was estimated at around 6:15 PM, based on a phone call Lupiya made to his employer informing him he was leaving Lilongwe.
“While along the way, the three suspects attacked both Mponda and Lupiya”.
The Police publicist explains further, “Lupiya’s body was later discovered in a maize field in Kafere Village, GVH Tsumbi, Traditional Authority Kachere, near the Dzalanyama Forest.
“Investigators are still trying to establish how the suspects accessed the area, as it is far from the main road”.
Meanwhile, Mponda is believed to have been shot near Lizulu in Ntcheu.
The suspects then allegedly drove the vehicle towards Dedza, where it was later abandoned near the Dedza police roadblock.
Police officers were alerted by tip-offs from members of the public about a suspicious vehicle with blood stains. Upon inspection, they found Mponda’s body inside the car.
With assistance from mobile service providers TNM and Airtel, investigators tracked the deceased’s mobile phones, which led to the arrest of the three suspects.
The police publicist adds that the suspects were found in possession of the stolen phones, a pistol, clothes, and other items believed to belong to the deceased.
Lupiya’s death had initially been treated as a separate incident.
However, during questioning, the suspects reportedly linked it to the same attack.
Engineer Mponda was a graduate of the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), class of 2022.
He previously worked as an intern at the Roads Authority and later as a site engineer at Adobe Construction before joining CEAR.
Lupiya was based in Chinamwali, Zomba.
The suspects, who are all from Traditional Authority (T.A) Malili in Lilongwe, are expected to appear in court to answer murder charges once investigations are completed.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Police in Lilongwe have launched investigations into the whereabouts of Sameer Sacrane, 46, who was kidnapped by three unknown criminals at around 10:30 hours on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Speaking to MaraviPost publication Lilongwe Police Spokesperson Hestings Chigalu,said the suspects dressed in white robes, allegedly ambushed Sacrane as he was entering his office premises, forcibly grabbed him and fled the scene.
Chigalu added that the criminals used a Toyota Fortuner motor vehicle bearing two different number plates, KA 144455 and KK 10085.
Before fleeing, the suspects fired two shots into the air to scare away individuals who attempted to rescue the victim.
Police have since intensified investigations and launched a manhunt to trace the victim and apprehend the culprits.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Central East Police Region is grappling with an alarming increase in crime cases, with a rise from 4,125 in 2024 to 4,381 in 2025, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police Gladson Chipumphula.
The trend has been described as worrisome, with officers being urged to intensify patrols, strengthen community policing initiatives, and work closely with local leaders to reverse the surge in crime.
Chipumphula made the remarks during the region’s end-of-year review meeting, where police officers assessed their performance over the past year.
The meeting provided a platform for officers to reflect on their achievements and challenges, with a focus on addressing the rising crime rates.
The police deputy commissioner emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, involving local leaders and communities, to tackle the issue.
The increase in crime cases is a concern, but what’s even more disturbing is the high number of suicide cases recorded in the region.
A total of 78 people took their own lives in 2025, with 66 being men and 12 women.
This highlights the need for increased mental health support and awareness in the region.
Despite the challenges, the police in the Central East Region have been commended for their hard work, discipline, and dedication to duty.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, Sam Nkhwazi praised the officers for their efforts, particularly following the general elections held this year.
The police have played a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The rise in crime cases is a call to action for the police and the community.
It’s time for stakeholders to come together and address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and opportunities.
Community policing initiatives can play a vital role in this regard, fostering trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
The police have a tough task ahead, but with the right strategies and support, they can turn the tide on crime.
Intensifying patrols, strengthening community policing, and working with local leaders are steps in the right direction.
The community must also play its part, reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with the police to ensure a safer environment for all.
The high number of suicide cases is a stark reminder of the mental health challenges facing the region.
It’s essential to increase awareness and provide support for those struggling with mental health issues.
The police, local leaders, and communities must work together to address this issue, providing resources and services for those in need.
As the Central East Police Region looks to the future, it’s clear that a multifaceted approach is needed to tackle crime and mental health issues.
With the right strategies and support, the region can become a safer and more stable place for all.
The police have shown their commitment to duty; now it’s time for the community to join forces and address these pressing issues.
The road ahead is challenging, but with collective effort and determination, the Central East Region can overcome its challenges and build a brighter future for all.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The brutal killing of Dr. Victoria Bobe, a promising 33-year-old lecturer at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), sent shockwaves through Malawi and beyond.
On the night of November 17, 2025, thugs invaded her home in Chigumula Township, Blantyre, stealing valuable items and ending her life in a senseless act of violence.
Yet, amidst the sorrow and grief, a beacon of hope has emerged—Malawi’s police force has swiftly apprehended six suspects, including a former police and intelligence officer from Mozambique, and are vigorously pursuing two more, including the named fugitive Alfred.
This outcome is not merely a routine arrest; it is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of Malawi’s security apparatus, the leadership of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government under President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, and the unwavering commitment of the line minister, Peter Mukhito.
In a country where security concerns often dominate headlines and citizens frequently express frustrations about law enforcement, the recent actions taken by the police are commendable and deserve recognition.
The suspects’ demonstration at the crime scene, where they reenacted their entry and disclosed who wielded the fatal rifle, reflects a transparency and procedural diligence that Malawi has long yearned for. This level of accountability in such a high-profile case sends a powerful message to would-be criminals and reassures the public that justice is attainable.
Equally important is the role of political leadership in securing this outcome. President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s administration has repeatedly emphasized security as a cornerstone of its governance agenda.
The swift police response and ongoing efforts to apprehend all suspects, including the elusive Alfred, underscore the government’s resolve to translate promises into tangible actions. This is the essence of proven leadership — delivering security where it matters most, protecting citizens, and reinforcing the rule of law.
Minister Peter Mukhito’s steadfast oversight of the police’s operations in this case has been pivotal.
His insistence on immediate and thorough investigations, coupled with public assurances of accountability, has galvanized the police force and bolstered public confidence. In an era when the line ministry responsible for internal security can often be mired in bureaucracy, Mukhito’s proactive approach stands out as a model of effective governance.
The murder of Dr. Bobe is not an isolated tragedy. It echoes a painful pattern of violence against educators and intellectuals in Malawi and the region.
The names of other lecturers and educators who have met untimely deaths serve as solemn reminders of the risks faced by those who dedicate their lives to knowledge and societal advancement.
Among them is Gregory Kamwendo, a respected Malawian professor who was shot dead in South Africa in 2018 under circumstances that still haunt the academic community.
Arnold Saka, a head teacher at Luwanjati Junior Primary School in Mzimba, was mercilessly killed by thugs in 2012, a loss that reverberated through the educational sector.
Similarly, George Maluwa, head teacher at Namiwawa Private Primary School in Blantyre, was killed by armed robbers in 2013, highlighting the vulnerability of educators to criminal predation.
Then there is Bellings Sikande, a lecturer at the University of Livingstonia, who died of poisoning in 2019, allegedly at the hands of his ex-girlfriend, an incident that shocked the nation and raised concerns about personal safety among academics.
These incidents collectively underscore the urgency of strengthening security frameworks to protect educators, who are pillars of Malawi’s future. The recent progress in the Dr. Bobe case should serve as a catalyst for broader reforms aimed at safeguarding intellectuals and teachers from violence and intimidation.
The government’s focus on security must extend beyond rhetoric to encompass comprehensive measures such as improved police training, community policing initiatives, and enhanced investigative capabilities.
Furthermore, the collaboration between Malawian and Mozambican authorities in apprehending a former Mozambican police and intelligence officer among the suspects reflects an encouraging spirit of regional cooperation in tackling cross-border crime. Such partnerships are indispensable in an era where criminal networks often operate beyond national boundaries.
The DPP-led government’s response to this tragedy also illustrates the critical interplay between political will and institutional capacity. Under President Mutharika’s stewardship, Malawi has taken strides in reinforcing its security institutions, but challenges remain.
The successful arrest of the suspects in Dr. Bobe’s case is a testament to how focused leadership and clear directives can overcome obstacles and deliver results.
It is crucial to acknowledge the emotional toll these violent acts take on families, colleagues, and the wider community. Dr. Bobe’s death is not just a loss to KUHeS but to Malawi’s academic landscape and society at large.
Her dedication to health sciences and education was a beacon of hope for many young Malawians aspiring to make a difference in healthcare and research. The swift justice pursued by the police and supported by the government sends a strong message to victims and their families that their grief is recognized and that the state stands ready to protect its citizens.
As the police continue to hunt for the remaining suspects, the nation watches with hope and expectation.
The assurance given by authorities that Alfred and other fugitives will be apprehended reinforces the commitment to comprehensive justice. It is essential that this momentum is maintained and that law enforcement agencies are equipped with the resources and training required to effectively tackle such crimes.
In reflecting on the broader implications of this case, it is evident that protecting educators and intellectuals is not solely a matter of law enforcement. It requires a societal commitment to valuing and safeguarding those who contribute to knowledge and national development.
The government’s role is pivotal in creating environments where safety is guaranteed, and justice is swift and certain.
The commendations owed to the police, the DPP-led government, and Minister Peter Mukhito are well deserved. Their combined efforts in the aftermath of Dr. Bobe’s murder demonstrate that Malawi can confront its security challenges head-on. They exemplify a model of leadership where promises are not mere words but actions that uphold the dignity and safety of all citizens.
Moving forward, it is imperative that this case becomes a turning point in Malawi’s journey towards enhanced security and justice.
The legacy of Dr. Victoria Bobe and other fallen educators must inspire continued vigilance, reform, and commitment to protecting the nation’s intellectual capital.
Only through sustained effort and collaboration can Malawi build a safer future where educators can thrive without fear, and where justice prevails unequivocally.
The successful apprehension of the suspects involved in the tragic killing of Dr. Victoria Bobe is a beacon of hope in a challenging security landscape.
It reflects the dedication of Malawi’s police, the proven leadership of the DPP government under President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, and the effective stewardship of Minister Peter Mukhito.
This collective effort not only honors the memory of Dr. Bobe but also strengthens the foundation for a safer Malawi, where justice is assured, and the safety of educators and citizens alike is a top priority.
Let this be a clarion call for continued vigilance, support, and action to ensure that such tragedies become a thing of the past.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Police have arrived at Chigumula in Blantyre to conduct a reconstruction of the murder of Dr. Victoria Bobe, who was shot dead last month.
The reconstruction exercise is part of ongoing investigations aimed at establishing how the crime was committed.
Six suspects have been brought to the scene of the crime to assist the police in demonstrating the sequence of events leading to Dr. Bobe’s death.
Authorities said that the suspects are expected to provide a detailed account of their actions during the incident, helping investigators piece together critical aspects of the case.
Residents of Chigumula gathered at the scene, observing the police operation from a distance as officers carefully documented the layout and key elements of the area where the shooting occurred.
The reconstruction is intended to aid forensic experts and investigators in confirming testimonies and verifying physical evidence collected during the initial stages of the investigation.
Police spokespersons have emphasized that the exercise is a standard procedure in murder investigations and is aimed at ensuring transparency and thoroughness in the case.
Investigators are paying particular attention to the timeline of events and the positioning of the suspects to understand how the attack unfolded.
The family of Dr. Bobe has been following the investigation closely and expressed hope that the reconstruction will bring clarity and lead to justice for their loved one.
Authorities have assured the public that the investigation is being conducted meticulously and that all findings will be used to build a solid case against those responsible for the crime.
This reconstruction comes after weeks of preliminary investigations that included witness interviews, forensic analysis, and the collection of physical evidence from the scene.
The police are also coordinating with legal experts to ensure that the demonstration of the crime will be admissible in court and can strengthen the prosecution’s case.
The community has expressed mixed emotions, with some residents feeling relief that progress is being made, while others are anxious about the unfolding of the investigation.
As the suspects demonstrate the alleged events, police officers are documenting every movement and verifying claims against existing evidence to ensure that the case is accurately represented.
Officials have stated that the reconstruction is expected to take several hours, after which the suspects will be returned to custody as investigations continue.
This case has attracted national attention due to the prominence of Dr. Bobe and the violent nature of the crime, highlighting concerns over security and the prevalence of violent incidents in urban areas.
Police have reiterated their commitment to completing a comprehensive investigation and bringing all responsible individuals to justice, emphasizing the importance of following legal procedures throughout the process.
The public has been urged to remain patient and allow law enforcement agencies to conduct their work without interference, as the reconstruction is a critical step in ensuring accountability.
Dr. Bobe’s death has sparked conversations about community safety and the need for increased vigilance to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Authorities have also confirmed that additional interviews and investigations will continue after the reconstruction, ensuring that all leads are thoroughly examined.
The outcome of this exercise is expected to inform further legal proceedings and could play a decisive role in the upcoming trial of the suspects.
Police have called on anyone with additional information about the crime to come forward and assist the investigation.
The reconstruction in Chigumula marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to solve Dr. Bobe’s murder and bring justice to her family and the community.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has reported a significant breakthrough in the murder case of Dr Victoria Bobe, a lecturer at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, who was shot dead at her home in Blantyre last month.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by Senior Superintendent Lael Chimtembo, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, police said six suspects have been arrested and have given detailed confessions outlining their respective roles in the crime.
Dr Bobe, 33 years old, was fatally shot by unknown criminals on November 17, 2025, around 23:00 hours at her residence in Chigumula Township, Blantyre.
During the attack, a MacBook Pro 11 laptop, a 10th Generation iPad and an NBS POS machine were stolen from the house.
According to police, the breakthrough follows intensive investigations that led to the arrest of six suspects, who are currently in custody. The suspects have allegedly provided explicit accounts of how the crime was planned and executed.
Six arrested
Those arrested include Raphael Msalamyama Mano aged 35, an ex-police officer and former intelligence officer from Gaza Province in Mozambique, Issa Ali 47 years old of Machemba Village, Traditional Authority Jalasi in Mangochi District, Santos Chamamba aged 54 of Bithinyu Village, Traditional Authority Ndamera in Nsanje District, a resident of Mtopwa and Maxwell Eliya 52 years old of Chimombo Village, Traditional Authority Chimombo in Nsanje District, a resident of Goliati.
Others are Charles Chikafa aged 62 of Mkwinda Village, Traditional Authority Chigalu in Blantyre District, a resident of Songani in Zomba and Peter Chimenya 50 years old of Kazembe Village, Traditional Authority Likoswe in Chiradzulu District.
Police say investigations are ongoing to track down two remaining suspects believed to be on the run.
Efforts are also underway to recover the stolen property, including the firearm used in the killing, which police believe may have been taken to Mozambique.
The Malawi Police Service has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring that all suspects connected to the murder are arrested and brought before the courts to face justice.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Authorities in Blantyre are investigating a suspected arson incident at Michiru Girls Secondary School, where police have arrested 21 students believed to have played a role in fires that destroyed key structures on campus.
The arrests follow a blaze that erupted in the early hours of Thursday, reducing a student hostel and the head teacher’s office to ashes.
Police say the incident appears to have been coordinated, though inquiries are still underway to establish the full extent of the students’ involvement.
Blantyre Police deputy spokesperson Doris Mwitha confirmed the development in an interview with MaraviPost publication, describing the situation as “deeply troubling and unfortunate.”
She said officers responded swiftly after receiving an alert from school authorities.
According to Mwitha, investigators have been working closely with head teacher Francis Musasa, who reported that the fires may have been ignited as an act of protest.
The learners allegedly rejected the school’s decision to extend the closing date from 19 to 21 December 2025.
Sources within the school say tension had been building over the extension, which management communicated earlier this week.
Some students were reportedly unhappy with the revised schedule, claiming it would interfere with their travel plans for the holiday season.
The fire destroyed the girls’ hostel where some of the suspects were accommodated, leaving behind charred mattresses, burnt beds and piles of debris.
Several students have since been temporarily relocated while the school assesses the extent of the damage.
The inferno also gutted the head teacher’s office, burning important documents, including files, certificates belonging to former students and administrative materials essential to daily operations.
Another section affected was the storage room, which held various school supplies.
Among the destroyed property were 90 brand-new floor tiles that had been set aside for upcoming renovations.
School authorities say the incident has disrupted not only the learning environment but also ongoing improvement projects.
They have expressed disappointment that a facility meant to support students’ education has been turned into a crime scene.
Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the motives, identify all responsible parties and assess the total value of the damage. They say additional arrests are possible as evidence continues to emerge.
Mwitha emphasized that acts of vandalism and arson in learning institutions will not be tolerated, warning that those found guilty will face the full force of the law. She added that safeguarding schools remains a top priority as the academic calendar draws to a close.
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