Six Arrested for Illegal Mining in Chitipa
Published on July 9, 2026 at 11:14 AM by Edgar Naitha
Police in Chitipa have arrested six people, including Blessings Mwanjawe, for allegedly engaging in unauthorized mining activities.
The arrests followed a tip-off about illegal mining operations in Binoni Forest near the Chambo River in the district.
The suspects have been identified as Blessings Mwanjawe, 34, of Ng’ambu Village, Traditional Authority (TA) Lundu in Chikwawa; Wyson Mangani, 44, of Kulunda Village, TA Liwonde in Machinga; John Robert, 25, of Naminjiwa Village, TA Mkhumba in Phalombe; Lazaro Silumbu, 29, of Chendo Village; Clement Sichali, 52, of Chendo Village; and Watson Sikwese, 24, of Chambo Village. The last three are from the area of Senior Chief Mwaulambia in Chitipa District.
The six suspects are expected to appear in court soon to answer charges related to unauthorized mining.
Chitipa Police spokesperson Sergeant Rabson Mkandawire has warned members of the public against engaging in illegal activities, saying law enforcement agencies will continue to take action against anyone found violating the law.
