Sylvester Ayuba Criticises Police Over Public Handling of Dr. Victoria Bobe Murder Suspects

Congressman and lawyer Sylvester Ayuba James has criticised the Malawi Police Service over what he describes as unprofessional conduct in the handling of suspects linked to the murder of Kamuzu University of Health Sciences lecturer, Dr. Victoria Bobe.

In a post on his official Facebook page, Ayuba expressed concern over police actions in Blantyre, where suspects were documented and livestreamed while being taken through scenes linked to the crime.

“What is happening in Blantyre is childish, not an investigation. I am not sure what the police are trying to achieve,” Ayuba wrote.

He was quick to clarify that his remarks should not be interpreted as condoning the murder, cautioning critics against misrepresenting his position.

“This is not saying the murder is condonable. I pray you understand what I am saying before commenting,” he added.

Ayuba further warned that the police actions risk violating the legal principle of presumption of innocence, describing the public handling of suspects as careless and driven by a desire for public validation rather than proper investigative standards.

“Presumption of innocence at trial in Blantyre has been thrown away. A very careless act by an investigative state institution, all for the sake of public validation. Sad although the death itself is sadder,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, reactions on social media have been mixed. While some users echoed Ayuba’s concerns about due process and professionalism, others praised the police for what they described as transparency and swift action in the high-profile murder case.

Police authorities have not yet responded to Ayuba’s remarks.