By Burnett Munthali
Police in Mulanje have arrested 46-year-old Kingsley Bandazi for the illegal possession of an unmarked pistol, which was loaded with five live rounds of ammunition. The arrest took place on December 6, 2024, in Makupiza Village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Mabuka, following a tip-off to the Anti-Organised Crime Unit.
Mulanje Police spokesperson Innocent Moses confirmed that the arrest was the result of a search conducted at Bandazi’s home. The officers recovered the firearm, and Bandazi was apprehended while attempting to hide in the village.
Moses explained that the authorities had acted swiftly after receiving credible information, which led to the discovery of the weapon. Bandazi, who had recently returned from South Africa, reportedly admitted to purchasing the pistol, but he did not reveal the reasons for possessing it.
The arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by Malawian authorities to combat the illegal possession of firearms and ensure public safety. Bandazi’s apprehension raises concerns about the potential for illicit weapons to circulate in the community, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of gun control laws.
The police have since launched further investigations into the case, and Bandazi will likely face charges related to the illegal possession of a firearm. Authorities are also working to determine if the weapon is linked to any criminal activities or organized crime in the area.
