Update: Director of Public Prosecutions Fostino Maele has discontinued the K5 billion unexplained wealth and money laundering case against Deputy Minister of Homeland Security Norman Chisale, according to Nyasa Times. Judge Violet Chipao confirmed the decision in the High Court's Financial Crimes Division after Maele cited a conflict of interest. Maele disclosed that he had previously represented Chisale in private practice and sought direction from Attorney General Frank Mbeta, who instructed that the case be dropped. With the criminal charges withdrawn, Chisale's lawyer, Chancy Gondwe, indicated that the State lacks legal grounds to hold his client's seized assets. Authorities previously confiscated 86 vehicles, 21 properties, and froze K1.7 billion in bank accounts during the investigation.
In a separate legal development, the Malawi Judiciary announced a new initiative to improve court practices regarding vulnerable populations, reports the official Judiciary website. Magistrates, police officers, and social welfare officials from ten districts recently completed specialised training in child and family justice in Lilongwe. The programme addressed gaps in applying the Child Care, Protection and Justice Act. Sessions focused on trauma-informed case handling, human rights responsive adjudication, and ensuring court orders serve the best interests of children. Save the Children International and Irish Rule of Law International supported the effort.
Meanwhile, two Malawian nationals face criminal charges in South Africa following a police operation at Hartebeespoortdam, according to Taung Daily News. South African authorities arrested the men, aged 24 and 28, for drug possession and contravening the Immigration Act. Police reported finding the suspects with crystal meth, nyaope, and mandrax tablets valued at over R15,000.