A deadly cross-border confrontation between Malawian citizens and Mozambican police resulted in the shooting death of a Malawian man on January 11, 2025, in Chilawe Trading Centre, Mikanyera District, Zambezia Province, Mozambique.

The deceased, identified as John Makawa from Msewu Village, Traditional Authority Kaduya in Phalombe District, was reportedly shot by Mozambican authorities after he and other Malawians crossed into Mozambique to purchase fertilizer. The situation reportedly escalated when the group was confronted for an illegal border crossing.

As tensions grew, Makawa was fatally shot by Mozambican police. In retaliation, sources say the Malawian group allegedly injured a Mozambican police officer and seized two rifles.

In a controversial turn of events, Makawa’s body was recovered by his relatives on January 12, 2025, using unofficial routes. The body was buried in Phalombe without the knowledge or clearance of police from either Malawi or Mozambique.

Efforts to contact Malawi’s National Police spokesperson for a statement were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.