Man Gets10 Years for Stealing Student’s Phone in Lilongwe
Published on August 26, 2025 at 4:56 PM by Evance Kapito
The Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court has sentenced 32-year-old Davis Maganga to 10 years in prison for stealing a Hisence smartphone valued at K180,000 from a student at Bwaila Secondary School.
The incident occurred on July 24, 2025, at around 11 a.m. near Area 47, close to Mlambe Lodge. According to state prosecutor Tamala Banda, the victim was walking with two friends when Maganga sprayed them with pepper spray and snatched the phone.
Bystanders intervened and apprehended Maganga, who was subsequently handed over to Lingadzi Police Station.
Police spokesperson Maria Kumwenda confirmed that Maganga pleaded guilty to the offense but appealed to the court for leniency, citing his family responsibilities.
However, Second Grade Magistrate Taonga Muwalo emphasized the need for stern punishment to deter rising cases of street theft and violence against students. The court handed down a 10-year prison sentence as a warning to other would-be offenders.
The ruling has been welcomed by community members and education advocates, who hope it will contribute to safer environments for students in and around school premises.
