Hospital Officer held, police probe Fmfatal stabbing in Mponela
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
Police in Mponela, Dowa District have arrested a senior health worker in connection with the death of a man following a violent altercation.
The suspect is a 45-year-old Chief Clinical Officer employed at Madisi Mission Hospital, identified as Patrick Mazanka.
Authorities say Mazanka is being investigated for the killing of his close acquaintance, Sydney Jailosi who was 32 years old.
Jailosi was a resident of Chalera Village, which falls under the jurisdiction of Senior Chief Chakhaza in Dowa District.
The fatal incident is reported to have occurred in the early hours of 2 January 2026.
Police say the events leading to the death began several days earlier, during an end-of-year celebration.
According to investigators, the gathering was organised by staff members of Madisi Mission Hospital.
The celebration took place on 31 December 2025 at Mazanka’s residence, located within the hospital’s staff housing area.
Jailosi reportedly attended the event after receiving an invitation from Mazanka.
Mponela Police spokesperson MacPatson Msadala confirmed the details of the incident.
Msadala explained that tensions arose during the party after allegations were made against Jailosi.
Some partygoers accused Jailosi of concealing bottles of beer meant for the celebration.
Police allege that the disagreement escalated later in the night.
It is claimed that Mazanka went into his house and deliberately switched off the lights.
Investigators further allege that he then attacked Jailosi.
Jailosi was reportedly stabbed in the abdomen using an unidentified sharp object.
Following the attack, other attendees rushed Jailosi to Madisi Mission Hospital.
He was admitted and placed under medical care for several days.
Despite receiving treatment, Jailosi’s condition reportedly worsened.
He died on 2 January 2026 while still admitted at the hospital.
A postmortem examination was later conducted at Kamuzu Central Hospital.
Medical findings indicated that Jailosi died due to internal bleeding.
The haemorrhage was caused by a penetrating stab wound, according to the report.
Police have since taken Mazanka into custody as investigations continue.
He is expected to be formally charged with murder.
Authorities say he will appear in court once the necessary procedures are completed.
Mazanka hails from Mtanila Village, also under Senior Chief Chakhaza in Dowa District.
Police have urged the public to remain calm as the matter proceeds through the justice system.
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