By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Police Service in Kanengo has arrested seven individuals suspected of being part of a dangerous armed robbery syndicate operating in Area 25, Lilongwe.
The suspects include Robert Petro, aged 30, Leonard Kamphale, aged 48, and Patrick Mtengula, aged 36 — all of whom are believed to be repeat offenders with previous prison records.
The other four suspects are Thokozani Henry, aged 32, Madalitso Chidzanja, aged 28, Richard Moyo, aged 33, Andrew Zimba, aged 30, and Henry Ebele, aged 44.
According to Kanengo Police Public Relations Officer Gresham Ngwira, the suspects are alleged to have formed a criminal gang that has been terrorizing residents in Area 25 using dangerous weapons.
Police say the gang is suspected of being behind a violent robbery that took place in Area 25C, where K35 million in cash was stolen alongside other valuables estimated at over K40 million.
The same group is also suspected of being responsible for another robbery incident involving three victims in the Spama area, where they allegedly used threats and force to steal from their targets.
Police investigations began with the arrest of one key suspect, Andrew Zimba, aged 30, who was apprehended first and is believed to have provided crucial information leading to the arrest of the remaining gang members.
The subsequent arrests took place in various guest houses across Lilongwe, where the suspects were reportedly planning other criminal activities.
Officer Ngwira noted that police intelligence and community cooperation played a major role in tracking down and apprehending the suspects before they could carry out further attacks.
Police have since launched a wider investigation into the gang’s activities, including tracing the origin of the weapons used and identifying additional accomplices.
Authorities have also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and to continue providing timely information that can help law enforcement prevent crime and ensure community safety.
All suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be formally charged in court soon.
This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the fight against organized crime in Lilongwe and reflects growing police efforts to restore public safety in one of the capital city’s most vulnerable areas.
