By Suleman Chitera

MACHINGA — Questions are mounting over the alleged release of a 19-year-old defilement suspect from Ntaja Police Station, with child rights groups and local stakeholders demanding an urgent investigation into how the suspect was allowed out of custody.

The suspect, identified as Kenneth Makangala, was reportedly arrested by Nayuchi Police and transferred to Ntaja Police Station pending court proceedings over allegations that he defiled a minor.

But according to a police statement seen by Times 360 Malawi, Makangala was allegedly released by an officer at Ntaja despite reports that medical examination results had confirmed evidence consistent with the alleged defilement.

The development has triggered outrage among stakeholders in Machinga, who are questioning how a suspect in a case involving a child could allegedly leave police custody before appearing before court.Malawians Rate Malawi Police Service Poor And Corrupt

The circumstances surrounding the release remain unclear, including who authorised it, why it happened and whether established police procedures were followed.

‘This is deeply worrying’ — Machinga MP

Member of Parliament for Machinga East, Esther Jolobala, has described the reported development as worrying, stressing that cases involving children must be treated with the seriousness they deserve.

Jolobala has vowed to follow the matter closely and ensure that questions surrounding the alleged release are not swept under the carpet.

Her concerns have added political pressure on law enforcement authorities to explain what happened at Ntaja Police Station and establish whether there was any breach of procedure.

CSOs demand answers

Chairperson of the Machinga CSO Network, Belinda Somanje Chimombo, has also raised alarm over the allegations, describing the matter as a serious threat to child protection.

Chimombo said civil society organisations will continue monitoring the case and following up with relevant authorities until justice is served.

For child rights advocates, the reported release raises broader concerns about the protection of children and the ability of the criminal justice system to properly handle sexual offence cases.

They argue that where allegations involve a minor, authorities have a responsibility to ensure that investigations and court processes are protected from interference while the rights of both the alleged victim and suspect are respected.Why Are Traffic Police Officers So Corrupt?

Police under pressure to explain

National Police spokesperson Gladys Chiwaula had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication.

The Malawi Police Service has therefore not yet publicly explained the circumstances surrounding the alleged release or confirmed whether an internal investigation has been instituted.

It is also unclear whether Makangala has since been re-arrested or where he is currently located.

The lack of an immediate public explanation is likely to intensify concerns among stakeholders who are demanding accountability and transparency from the police.

Who authorised the release?

At the centre of the controversy are questions that authorities must now answer.

Who ordered or authorised the suspect’s release? Why was he released while reportedly awaiting court? Were police procedures followed? Was the medical evidence properly considered? And has any officer been investigated over the matter?

These questions have become increasingly important as pressure grows for authorities to demonstrate that alleged offences against children are handled firmly and transparently.

The case has also renewed calls for stronger accountability mechanisms within police stations, particularly in cases involving vulnerable victims.Malawi Police Named On Top List Of Corrupt Institution

Stakeholders say the issue should not be allowed to disappear without a clear explanation from the authorities.

For the people of Machinga, the demand is straightforward: establish what happened, hold anyone responsible to account if wrongdoing is established, and ensure that the alleged victim’s rights and protection remain at the centre of the process.

The police are expected to clarify the matter as pressure mounts over the alleged release.

Makangala remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.Exposing corruption in Malawi’s Traffic Police system