Woman Arrested in Balaka Over Illegal Firearm Linked to Stolen Police Pistol

Police in Balaka have arrested a 55-year-old woman, Rhoda Amos, for allegedly being found in possession of a firearm and ammunition without a valid permit or licence, following investigations into a stolen police weapon.

Balaka Police Station spokesperson Gladson M’bumpha said the arrest is connected to the theft of a Jericho pistol belonging to Balaka Police Station, which was reported missing on December 14, 2025.

M’bumpha explained that while investigations into the missing firearm were underway, police received a tip-off indicating that the suspect was keeping a gun at her house. Detectives later conducted a search, during which they recovered a pistol and seven rounds of ammunition concealed in a sack and wrapped in a plastic jumbo.

During questioning, Amos reportedly told police that the firearm had been sent to her by her son, Amos Poison, 35, who is currently residing in Johannesburg, South Africa. She claimed the weapon was smuggled into Malawi hidden inside a subwoofer.

Rhoda Amos, who comes from Lupanga Village, is currently in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.