Boat Operator Jailed After 11 Die in Likoma
Published on May 9, 2025 at 8:21 PM by Edgar Naitha
The First Grade Magistrate’s Court in Likoma has sentenced Owen Gondwe, one of the drivers of a boat that capsized and killed 11 people, to three and a half years (42 months) in prison for carrying passengers in contravention of Section 241 of the Constitution.
The accident occurred on April 12, when the boat was allegedly carrying more passengers than its capacity allowed.
Prosecutor Charles Chilala urged the court to impose a harsh sentence on Gondwe, arguing that he prioritized profit over human life.
Judge Nyamazana Nyirenda Mkandawire of Fordwatch concurred with the prosecution in delivering the verdict.
