Men in Military Uniform Assault Civilians, Burn Property in Dowa After Brutal Murd3r of MDF Soldier
Published on July 21, 2025 at 11:07 AM by Evance Kapito
There was panic and disruption at Mvera Market in Dowa earlier today as a group of unidentified men, reportedly wearing Malawi Defence Force (MDF) military uniforms, beat up civilians and torched vendors’ property.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers arrived early in the morning and caused havoc for several hours. They allegedly assaulted anyone they found at the market and burned merchandise, forcing traders to flee and halting all business activities.
Benson Nakutuwa, Vice Chairperson of the market, confirmed the incident: “Everyone ran away. Business has been completely paralyzed.”
The incident follows the murder of an MDF soldier, Chiswansangu Nyirongo (30), who was stationed at Mvera Support Battalion. He was killed on the night of July 15, 2025, at his home in Kalazi Village under Traditional Authority Chiwere, in the district.
In connection to the murder, Dowa Police have arrested Pemphero Puleti (24), suspected of being involved in the killing of the soldier.
Authorities have not officially confirmed the identities of the assailants at the market or whether they are indeed connected to the army, but police say investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, security forces have been deployed to calm tensions in the area, and law enforcement has urged the public to remain peaceful as efforts to restore order and justice continue.
