Group Village Headman sentenced to six years imprisonment for vandalizing road signs in Dowa

By Alice Sitima

The Dowa First Grade Magistrate’s Court has convicted and sentenced Group Village Headman Chonde, real name Levison Kadula, aged 36, of Chilundu Village, Traditional Authority Mkukula in Dowa District, to six years imprisonment with hard labour for vandalizing road signage.

The sentence was handed down on Friday, July 5, 2025, by First Grade Magistrate Yohane Nkhata.

According to state prosecutor Sergeant Evans Chambuluka, the case followed a complaint lodged on June 25, 2025, by China Construction Company, which is currently working on the Lilongwe–Kasungu Road.

The company reported the disappearance of approximately 20 road signs valued at K4,000,000.

The investigations by officers from Chibvala Police Unit led to the arrest of Levison Kadula and his younger brother, Foster Kadula, 28.

The duo was arrested at their residence, where they were found actively cutting the stolen metal signs into pieces.

Further inquiries led to the recovery of some of the stolen items.

Appearing before the court, the accused pleaded guilty to the charge.

In his mitigation, he pleaded for leniency, citing that his wife had recently given birth to triplets and required his support.

However, the prosecution argued for a custodial sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense and the broader implications of vandalizing public infrastructure.

Magistrate Nkhata concurred with the state, stating that as a traditional leader, he had a responsibility to protect public property and serve as a role model within his community.

In delivering the sentence, the Magistrate emphasized the importance of safeguarding government development initiatives and maintaining public trust in leadership, particularly at the community level.

Kadula will serve 72 months imprisonment with hard labour.