Mob Justice Claims Two Lives in Balaka

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

A tragic incident occurred in Balaka, Malawi, where two suspected thieves were killed by an angry mob after allegedly stealing a motorcycle from a Kabaza operator.

According to Gladson M’bumpha, Public Relations Officer at Balaka Police Station, the incident took place at Chanthunya Trading Centre in Balaka District.

“The two deceased individuals, whose identities have not been disclosed, approached a motorcycle Kabaza operator, Alex, with a request to transport bags of fertilizer to Balaka Township.

“Alex agreed to assess the quantity of fertilizer before determining the hiring fee. However, while Alex was verifying the fertilizer, one of the suspects started the motorcycle engine, and the other suspect joined him in fleeing the scene,” he said.

He said Alex quickly mobilized fellow Kabaza operators, who chased after the suspects.

M’bupha said: “The two individuals were caught, but before the police could intervene, an angry mob of villagers joined in, assaulting the suspects.

“The situation escalated, and the suspects were doused with petrol and set ablaze. The alleged stolen motorcycle was later recovered by unknown Kabaza operators.”

He said the police have launched an investigation into the incident, with the bodies of the deceased taken to Balaka District Hospital for postmortem examination and identification.

Authorities are working to identify the suspects and the owner of the alleged stolen motorcycle. No arrests have been made at this time.