MPS crack case of KUHeS Lecturer’s murder

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of Dr. Victoria Bobe, a 33-year-old lecturer at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) whose death shocked the nation and the academic community.

Dr. Bobe was brutally shot dead on November 17, 2025 at around 23:00 hours at her residence in Chigumula Township, Blantyre.

The attackers fled the scene after stealing a MacBook Pro laptop, an iPod and an NBS POS machine.

Her killing sparked widespread fear and outrage, particularly among university staff and students who described the incident as a tragic loss of a young academic with a promising future.

Following weeks of intensive investigations, police have arrested six suspects who are now in custody and have provided detailed confessions outlining how the crime was planned and carried out.

MPS Public Relations Officer Senior Superintendent Laal Chintembo identifies the suspects as Raphael Msolanyama Mano, a former police and intelligence officer from Gaza Province in Mozambique, along with five Malawian nationals from Mangochi, Nsanje, Blantyre, Zomba, and Chiradzulu districts.

Chintembo said the confessions reveal that the murder was a coordinated operation involving both local and cross-border criminal networks.

She believe the stolen items were moved out of the country shortly after the crime and are currently in Mozambique, prompting collaboration with regional law enforcement agencies.

“Two suspects linked to the case remain at large and authorities say efforts are underway to track them down and ensure their arrest.

“We are committed to pursuing justice in this case, no matter how long it takes,” said Chintembo, adding that police will ensure all those involved are brought before the courts.

Dr. Bobe was widely respected at KUHeS for her dedication to teaching, research and mentorship. Colleagues described her as hardworking, compassionate, and deeply committed to the success of her students.

The Malawi Police Service says it hopes the breakthrough will bring closure to Dr. Bobe’s family and restore public confidence in the justice system as the case moves toward prosecution.