Police at Kanengo Police Station have arrested four men suspected of attempting to kidnap a female student from the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) NRC campus, as well as intimidating and trying to extort her mother.
The suspects have been identified as Faraz Suleman (47), Suleman Seleman (37), Rahim Mwachumu (40), and Royd Nanthengwa (49). They were arrested on May 2, 2026, at Shoprite Area 49 after the student reported the matter.
According to Sub Inspector Macfarlen Mseteka, investigations reveal that the victim’s mother, who resides in Canada, allegedly borrowed USD 4,000 from Eric Makanjira while they were both abroad. The mother is said to have declined repayment after settling bills of an equivalent amount on his behalf.
Police say Makanjira then issued threats, warning that if the money was not paid, he would arrange for the kidnapping of her daughter. He reportedly contacted the student directly, pressuring her to intervene and allegedly threatening to send people to abduct her.
On May 2, the student received a suspicious call from an unknown number asking her to meet at Shoprite in Area 49. Sensing danger, she alerted police.
Detectives mounted an operation at the scene and arrested the four suspects as they allegedly attempted to force the student into a Toyota Surf (registration number BQ6408).
The suspects are expected to face charges of attempted kidnapping, intimidation, and attempted extortion. They will appear in court once documentation is completed.
Meanwhile, police say efforts are underway to trace Makanjira, who is believed to have orchestrated the plot.
