In Blantyre, public scrutiny of the Malawi Police Service is increasing over their handling of a suspected gold smuggling network linked to the torture and murder of Indian trader Asif Khan, Nyasa Times reports. The Malawi Human Rights Commission has demanded a thorough investigation into the killing. One suspect is currently awaiting trial in the High Court, but at least three others connected to the case have reportedly fled the country.
Meanwhile, Zomba police have launched an investigation into the death of University of Malawi assistant lecturer Mary Hamba Nyirenda. She was found dead at her home on July 19. According to Nyasa Times, Zomba police deputy public relations officer Constable Andrew Mwale stated that preliminary investigations indicate Nyirenda recently underwent a surgical procedure and complained of severe pain before her death.
In Mulanje Central, the government's recent mass release of prisoners has drawn criticism after three pardoned inmates were arrested in connection with the theft of 10 boreholes. Nyasa Times reports that Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito acknowledged to Parliament that police are managing an increasing number of cases involving repeat offences by recently freed prisoners.
Fiscal Police have arrested a Malawi Revenue Authority officer and a tax agent as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged fraudulent transfer of a commercial property involving businessman Abdul Karim Batatawala. According to Nyasa Times, investigators are currently searching for four additional suspects linked to the suspected forgery and illegal property transfer.
Finally, police in Chikwawa arrested two Malawian men on July 18 on suspicion of human trafficking after intercepting a vehicle carrying nine Ethiopian nationals without valid travel documents. Nyasa Times reports that all eleven suspects are expected to appear in court to face charges relating to illegal entry and trafficking in persons.