Police Arrest 15 Over Alleged Assault and Robbery in Machinga

Police in the Eastern Region have arrested 15 people in Machinga District for allegedly assaulting victims and stealing their property.

The suspects were apprehended during a police operation conducted on June 25, 2026, at Lipuluma Village under Traditional Authority Mchinguza.

According to police, the suspects are linked to an incident that occurred on January 12, 2026, in which Mr. Chimbali Chikopa and others from Siwoya Village were allegedly attacked while preparing rice fields and robbed of items including mobile phones and a bicycle.

The arrests followed a joint operation involving officers from Eastern Region Police Headquarters, Machinga, Zomba, Balaka, Liwonde and the Police Mobile Service (E Division).

The suspects have been charged with unlawful wounding, theft and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and are expected to appear in court soon.

Police have urged communities to avoid taking the law into their own hands and instead report suspected criminal activities to law enforcement agencies. The service has also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace, security and the rule of law across the Eastern Region.