The Malawi Network of Older Persons Organisations has raised alarm over a surge in violence against the elderly. Recent data indicates that 11 older individuals have been killed over witchcraft accusations in the first four months of 2026, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies. Highlighting this trend, Face of Malawi reports that Dowa Police launched a manhunt this week for Rodwell Nduna. He is accused of killing his uncle, Positani Kachipewa, with a hammer following a family dispute over witchcraft allegations in Chikonkha Village. MANEPO Executive Director Andrew Kavala condemned the killing as a serious human rights violation and called for better enforcement of the Older Persons Act to protect vulnerable citizens.
In Salima District, Central East Region Police confirmed the transfer of murder suspect Amaan Khasiya to Maula Prison, where he will be held on remand. Police spokesperson Esther Nkwanda told Face of Malawi that Khasiya is accused of unlawfully causing the death of 22-year-old Abdul Aziz Panjwani by running him over after an altercation at a local cottage. Authorities are currently compiling the case file for submission to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal review.
In a separate court case, the Chisenjere Second Grade Magistrate's Court in Chileka sentenced Wanangwa Zava to 10 years in prison for burglary and the theft of motor vehicle parts, according to Face of Malawi. State prosecutor Sub-Inspector Gertrude Mteke informed the court that the accused had been targeting residences in the Chatha, Ngumbe, and 10 Miles areas before his arrest. Second Grade Magistrate Naomi Chingana ordered the sentences for multiple counts of burglary and theft to run concurrently and consecutively, resulting in a 10-year term to be served at Blantyre Prison.