“We’ve got leads and we’re on top of it,” say police
By Malawi Freedom Network
A growing wave of brutal killings in Lilongwe’s Area 25 has left residents gripped with fear, with at least five lives lost and several others injured since May 2025. The violence, largely concentrated in the sprawling township’s sectors, has disrupted daily life and triggered calls for urgent intervention from both authorities and the community.
The string of seemingly indiscriminate attacks has pushed residents into a state of constant fear, with many opting to stay indoors as early as 7:00 PM. For those who have survived the assaults, the trauma remains raw.
“I had just closed my shop and was cycling home when someone grabbed me from behind,” recounted Steven Phiri, a liquor vendor at Msungwi Market. “They beat me mercilessly while demanding money and my phone. I lost consciousness and only woke up in the hospital.”
Phiri’s physical injuries are healing, but his emotional scars linger. “Even my own shadow terrifies me. But I have a family to feed — I can’t just stop working,” he added, visibly shaken.
Death Toll Rises
Not all have been as fortunate as Phiri.
On June 30, 2025, Brian Nthondwa was found hacked to death near his home in Sector 8. His wife, Doreen, now widowed, recalled through tears how her husband never returned after attending a wedding and planning to watch a football match.
“He died like an animal,” she said, broken. “Now I’m left with four children and no answers.”
Other chilling incidents include the murder of a bloc leader in Sector 6, a Form Four student from Dzenza Secondary School, and a woman whose body was discovered dumped near Kabwabwa Cemetery. Her four-year-old daughter, sitting beside the corpse and crying, drew attention to the horrific scene.
Two more killings were reported in July — one involving a young man in Area 25C and another near Kalambo Primary School in Sector 7.
Residents Demand Action
Henry Madzimayera, Chairperson of Msungwi Neighborhood Watch, expressed frustration over the ongoing violence.
“Some of these killings seem to have no motive. The attackers don’t even steal anything — it’s as if they kill for sport,” he observed.
Community leader Benjamin Maganizo Banda echoed the sentiment, stating, “These murders aren’t about robbery. It’s a desire to kill. That’s the most frightening part.”
Both leaders have spearheaded efforts to bolster community watch groups and have urged local businesses and well-wishers to support them with torches and other gear. Letters have been sent to companies, appealing for assistance.
Police Respond
The Malawi Police Service, through Kanengo Police Station, has stepped up its efforts. On June 3, 2025, officers from Kanengo, Lilongwe, Kawale, and Lingadzi launched a coordinated sweep targeting hotspots including Mgona, Area 49 Mvama, and several Area 25 sectors. The operation resulted in 108 arrests for various offenses.
On July 7, police arrested seven suspects in connection with a robbery involving over K40 million. The suspects — Robert Petro, Leonard Kamphale, Patrick Mtengula, Thokozani Henry, Madalitso Chidzanja, Richard Moyo, and Henry Ebele — are under investigation, though police have not confirmed direct links to the murder cases.
National Police Spokesperson Peter Kalaya assured the public that authorities are actively pursuing leads. “We know there’s an increase in violent crime, especially in Area 25. We are on top of it. Our detectives are following leads and we will bring the culprits to justice,” he said.
Kalaya also emphasized the importance of community cooperation. Patrols in and around Area 25 have been intensified, with increased collaboration between police and local leaders including chiefs and bloc representatives.
“While we’re not discouraging night movement entirely, we advise residents to move in groups of at least three for safety,” Kalaya advised.
He also warned against sensationalism on social media, noting that exaggeration can instill fear and lead to mob justice, potentially worsening the crisis.
Hope Amid Fear
As darkness falls over Area 25 each night, hope still flickers — hope that justice will be served, and that peace will return to the once-thriving township. Until then, residents must navigate a daily life shaped by loss, fear, and resilience.
For the people of Area 25, the fight is not just against criminals, but against fear itself. And in that fight, both community and law enforcement must stand together — resolute and united.
© Malawi Freedom Network, 2025
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