By Burnett Munthali

A 33-year-old man, Steve Manda, has been arrested for allegedly impersonating a Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldier from Moyale Barracks and defrauding people, particularly women.

Manda was apprehended on Tuesday evening after his girlfriend reported to the police that he had swindled her out of MWK 1.3 million.

According to Jenda Police spokesperson Macfarlen Mseteka, investigations revealed that Manda had falsely claimed to be a soldier and lured the woman into a romantic relationship.

“Manda convinced the woman that he needed MWK 1.3 million to repair his car, which he claimed had broken down in Chikangawa. The woman later realized she had been duped after meeting another woman who shared a similar experience,” said Mseteka.

Police say Manda was arrested wearing military boots and is now facing charges of impersonation and fraud.

Authorities suspect Manda has been using the same tactic to exploit several women. Police have urged anyone who might have fallen victim to come forward and report their cases.

Manda will appear in court soon to answer the charges against him.