Man Arrested In Mangochi For Murdering Sex-Worker Over Jealousy

Police in Mangochi have arrested a 19-year-old man, Ishmael John, who had been on the run for several days on suspicion of murdering a 25-year-old sex worker, Ethel Mphepo, in a case believed to be driven by jealousy.

The incident occurred on the morning of April 27, 2026, in Mangochi Township.

According to Mangochi Police public relations office Amina Tepani Daud , the suspect was a regular client of the deceased, and the two were frequently seen together at a business premises operated by one of Mphepo’s friends within the township.

Daud said the two were also known to visit a nearby bush where they engaged in sexual activities.

In the days leading up to the incident, another man had reportedly shown interest in marrying Mphepo. He was often seen talking to her at the business premises, sometimes in the presence of the suspect.

Daud explained that police believe this situation may have triggered jealousy.

“On the day of the incident, the suspect allegedly lured Mphepo from the business area to their usual secluded spot under the pretext of meeting for sex. Once there, he is believed to have strangled her before fleeing to his home village” She said.

The body was later taken to Mangochi District Hospital, where a postmortem examination confirmed strangulation as the cause of death.

Daud further said that following investigations, the suspect was arrested over the weekend at his home village of Mitanga, under Traditional Authority Mponda in Mangochi District.

Police say the suspect has since admitted to the offence and is expected to appear in court to answer a charge of murder once all necessary procedures are completed.