By Jones Gadama
The Mulanje Magistrate’s Court has convicted two police officers and a businessman for causing grievous bodily harm to a 13-year-old boy, leading to the amputation of his arms. Charles Mbewe and Stanley Chigaru, police officers based at Misanjo Police Unit in Mulanje, and Mabvuto Chikhwaza, a businessman, were found guilty of the charges.
According to the court’s findings, Chikhwaza tied the boy’s arms with an elastic rubber to his back and took him to Misanjo Police Unit, where he stayed for several days in that state.
The police officers, Mbewe and Chigaru, were found to have neglected their official duty by failing to intervene and protect the boy from harm.
Senior Resident Magistrate Gift Msume delivered the verdict, also convicting the police officers of neglecting their official duty.
The court’s decision marks a significant step towards accountability and justice for the victim and his family.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for stricter measures to prevent such abuses in the future. The victim, a 13-year-old boy, suffered severe injuries that resulted in the amputation of both arms.
The court’s findings revealed that Chikhwaza’s actions were reckless and inhumane, and the police officers’ failure to intervene exacerbated the situation.
The case highlights concerns about police brutality and the need for accountability within the Malawi Police Service.
The conviction of the two police officers sends a strong message that police misconduct will not be tolerated and that those who abuse their power will face the consequences.
The conviction of the police officers and the businessman has significant implications for police accountability in Malawi.
It demonstrates that the justice system is committed to holding those in power accountable for their actions. The case also underscores the need for police reforms and increased oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Malawi Police Service has faced criticism in the past for alleged human rights abuses and police brutality.
This conviction serves as a reminder that police officers are not above the law and that they will be held accountable for their actions.
The victim’s family and supporters have welcomed the court’s verdict, saying it brings them one step closer to justice.
The case has sparked an outpouring of support for the victim, with many calling for increased protection for children and vulnerable groups.
The court’s decision to convict the accused has also been praised by human rights organizations, which have long been advocating for police reforms and accountability in Malawi.
The court has set May 22, 2025, as the day for sentencing the convicts.The severity of the sentence will be closely watched, with many hoping that it will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider committing similar crimes.
The conviction of the police officers and the businessman is a significant step towards justice for the victim and his family.
It also sends a strong message that those who abuse their power and harm others will face the consequences.
As the country awaits the sentencing, many are hoping that justice will be served, and the victim will receive the compensation and support he deserves.
The case serves as a reminder of the need for increased accountability and oversight within the police service and the importance of protecting human rights in Malawi.
