Police Nab Suspects in Daring Nighttime Raid
All five remain in police custody pending further investigation. They are expected to appear in court in the coming days.
Mzimba, Malawi - In a daring nighttime operation, police in Jenda have arrested five suspects believed to be behind a string of crimes that have terrorized local residents for months, writes Tionge Hara.
Acting on intelligence gathered through an extensive investigation, law enforcement officers swooped in under cover of darkness early Tuesday morning and apprehended the alleged perpetrators.
"This was a meticulously planned sting that finally brings these criminals to justice," said police spokesperson Sub-Inspector MacFarlane Mseteka at a press briefing.
"The people of Jenda can rest easier tonight knowing these suspects are off the streets."
Three of the arrested men - Bob Moyo, 60, Jeoffrey Moyo, 60, and Blessings Jere, 45 - face charges in connection with a 2023 witchcraft accusation case that saw an elderly woman's home demolished in Kamangadazi village.
The other two suspects - Dumisani Jere, 33, and Chandiwira Jere, 39 - have been accused of housebreaking and assault charges.
All five remain in police custody pending further investigation. They are expected to appear in court in the coming days.
Inspector Mseteka vowed that authorities will continue cracking down on vigilante violence and crimes targeting vulnerable groups.
"This kind of lawlessness will not be tolerated in Jenda," he said.
With the dramatic overnight arrests, police have delivered a clear warning to would-be criminals that justice will be served.
For the long-suffering residents of Jenda, it represents a glimmer of hope that order may soon be restored.