Two foreign nationals arrested for illegal possession of specimen of protected species and Reserved minerals

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) have arrested two Sri-Lankan nationals in Lilongwe on charges of illegal possession of specimen of protected species and precious mineral stones which is contrary to section 86 subsection 1 of National Parks and Wildlife Act; and Section 99 of Minerals and Mines Act of Malawi respectively.

According to Central Region Police Publicist Nollette Chihana Chimala, on Tuesday afternoon arrested two men of Sri-Lankan nationality identified as Mohamed Al Mazri (51 years old), and Panagodage Palitha Pushpa Kumara (aged 48) for being found in possession of different specimen of protected species and also some precious mineral stones without license.

The police were on a different operation when they reached the house of the two suspects in Area 49.
The Central Region Police Publicists adds, “our officers found two live tortoises behind the house.

Then they became more suspicious with the behavior of the suspects and that we decided to do a further search within the premise where we find those things.”

“Upon searching, the officers found some products made from hippo teeth; kudu’ horn and other specimen of protected species. The officers also found different precious minerals such as tourmaline and other copper products,” She said.

However, the suspects did not show any license that allows them to possess the listed items.

“We then arrested on two counts; the first is illegal possession of specimen of protected species contrary to section 86 subsection 1 of National Parks and Wildlife Act: and second illegal possession of reserved minerals which is contrary to section 99 of Mines and Minerals Act.” Chimala said

The two are in police custody and will be taken to court soon once preparations are completed.

Source : Malawi News Hub