By Burnett Munthali
Police in Blantyre have intensified their investigation into the killing of Dr Victoria Bobe, bringing six suspects to the scene to demonstrate how the crime unfolded.
Among those involved is Raphael Msalanyama Mano, a 35-year-old former police and intelligence officer originally from Gaza Province, Mozambique.
Dr Bobe was tragically shot last month in Chigumula, sending shockwaves through the local community and drawing nationwide attention.
Authorities say the reconstruction is a crucial part of the investigation, allowing officers to piece together the sequence of events and verify key details.
Mano’s previous experience in law enforcement has added a layer of complexity, prompting investigators to scrutinise his actions closely.
Members of the public watched from nearby as the police carefully recorded the movements of the suspects and mapped the scene in detail.
Police emphasised that reconstructing a crime scene is a standard practice in complex murder cases and is essential for building a strong case for court.
Each of the six suspects is required to explain their role in the fatal incident, with officers observing and documenting every action.
Officials noted that the exercise could take several hours to complete, as investigators ensure that all aspects of the case are accurately captured.
The family of Dr Bobe has expressed cautious hope that the reconstruction will provide clarity and help expedite justice.
In the weeks following the shooting, investigators have conducted numerous witness interviews, collected forensic evidence, and analysed ballistic reports.
Police confirmed that the entire process is being conducted with transparency and strict adherence to legal procedures.
Community reactions have been mixed, with some residents feeling relieved that progress is being made, while others remain unsettled by the violence in their neighbourhood.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with additional information about the murder to come forward and assist the investigation.
The reconstruction also provides investigators with an opportunity to compare the suspects’ statements against the physical evidence collected from the scene.
Dr Bobe’s death has heightened concerns over security in urban areas and raised questions about the prevalence of violent crime.
The Malawi Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable and ensuring justice is served.
Following the reconstruction, the suspects will remain in custody while investigations continue and preparations for their prosecution are finalised.
This reenactment marks a significant milestone in the investigation, demonstrating the police’s methodical approach and professionalism in handling high-profile cases.
Officials have stressed that every step is being carefully documented to maintain the integrity of the process and ensure a fair trial.
