Man behind bars for killing brother in law in Neno

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

Police at Zalewa in Neno have taken into custody a 23-year-old man, Chifundo Magalasi in connection with the alleged murder of his brother in law, John Thomas.

Neno Police spokesperson, Sergeant Rebecca Msoliza confirmed the arrest and said the incident occurred at Funsani Village on December 22, 2025.

Msoliza said that the suspect and the deceased had a long standing disagreement that had strained relations between the two families.

She said investigations revealed that on October 15, 2025, the deceased allegedly set Magalasi’s house on fire, an act that reportedly fueled resentment and anger.

“On the night of December 21, 2025, John Thomas is said to have gone to a nearby drinking place before returning home later in the evening.

“Due to hot weather conditions, Thomas reportedly chose to sleep outside his house. The following morning, villagers discovered his body lying where he had slept, prompting shock and concern,” she said.

Msoliza added that: “The matter was immediately reported to police, who launched investigations that later led to the arrest of Magalasi on December 28, 2025.”

She further said that the suspect has since confessed to attacking his brother-in-law with a wooden stick, claiming the act was in retaliation for the earlier arson incident.

A postmortem examination conducted at Zalewa Health Centre confirmed that Thomas died from severe head injuries caused by a blunt object.

Magalasi remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon to answer a charge of murder as investigations continue.