By Burnett Munthali
Peter Davis, a 25-year-old man, has tragically lost his life after being shot in the stomach by police during a confrontation in Makanjira, Mangochi District, in the early hours of today.
According to Alick Salama, a local trader who witnessed the incident, the police had arrived at the scene to close a drinking establishment as it was operating beyond the permitted hours.
Salama explained that the patrons at the venue were unhappy with the police’s actions, leading to a heated altercation.
“As the argument escalated, the police fired several shots, one of which struck Davis in the stomach. He was rushed to Mangochi District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead,” Salama said.
The situation in Makanjira remains tense, with reports of residents expressing outrage and threatening retaliation against the police. Chief Makanjira confirmed the unrest, adding that the officers involved are currently in hiding.
Mangochi Police spokesperson Amina Daudi has stated that the police leadership has already initiated measures to restore calm in the area. Daudi also promised to provide a detailed account of the events leading to the tragic incident.
As investigations continue, questions are being raised about the use of force by the police and their approach to enforcing regulations in such situations. The community of Makanjira is mourning the loss of Davis while demanding accountability from the authorities.
