MHRC releases report on shooting of fitness trainer Chikondi Makawa

The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has released its findings on circumstances leading to the shooting to death of a fitness trainer Chikondi Makawa by a police officer at Gateway Mall in the capital Lilongwe in August this year.

Makawa was shot dead by unknown police officer after a fracas following a failure by the deceased to pay for bottled water he purchased.

In a report released today, MHRC said the deceased had mental health illness.

On the time of his death the deceased became aggressive and violent, according to a CCTV footage.

Below is the report;

The deceased provoked the bar tender at Acres bar and the Police Officer (Chitsike)

Chitsike shot the deceased at a distance of 2 meters.

The deceased died of unnatural gunshot wounds.

Recommendations

The Director of Public Prosecutions should speed up criminal procedures for Chitsike and justice be served to the family of the deceased.

The Malawi Police Service should include in its training issues of how police officers can handle people with mental health issues.

Should investigate a matter that officer Chitsike reported for duties while under the influence of alcohol.

-The family of the deceased should seek compensation on the death of Chikondi.