Court Denies Bail to Trio Accused of Plotting to Assassinate Paramount Chief M’mbelwa V

The Mzimba First Grade Magistrate’s Court has denied bail to Masabani Jere, Smart Nyirenda, and Muva Nkhata, who are accused of conspiring to assassinate Paramount Chief Inkosi ya Makosi M’mbelwa V.

Presiding Magistrate Radison Gamaliyeli ruled on Monday that the seriousness of the matter was beyond the jurisdiction of the lower court and has since committed the case to the High Court for further proceedings.

The trio, all from the area of Inkosi Mzikubola, were arrested last week in an intelligence-led operation. During the raid, police reportedly recovered a revolver and ammunition at Jere’s house. Jere, one of the contenders in the Mzikubola chieftainship wrangle, is alleged to be the mastermind behind the assassination plot.

Their legal representative, Blessings Mkopoliwa, said he would now seek bail from the High Court.

“At the initial hearing, the State admitted they were still investigating and had no solid evidence. The continued detention of my clients is an abuse of state power,” said Mkopoliwa.

The three suspects will remain on remand at Mzimba Prison until their case is heard at the High Court.