Man Dies After Setting Himself Ablaze in Nkhotakota

A 41-year-old man, Shadrick Phiri, has tragically died after setting himself on fire following a domestic dispute with his wife over the sale of a bag of maize.

Sub Inspector Andrew Kamanga, the spokesperson for Nkhunga Police Station, has confirmed the incident and said it  occurred on the evening of July 12, 2025, in Dwambazi, Nkhotakota District.

Police say Phiri had left his home earlier in the evening to drink at a local bar. Upon returning around 9 p.m., he attempted to take a bag of maize from the house with the intention of selling it to buy more alcohol. His wife refused to allow him to sell the maize, leading to a heated argument.

In a shocking turn, Phiri reportedly poured petrol on himself which was stored inside the house and walked to another location where he set himself ablaze.

He died from the burns, and police are currently finalizing investigations surrounding the circumstances of the incident.

Authorities have described the tragedy as a disturbing example of how domestic conflicts and substance abuse can escalate with devastating consequences.