Police arrest man over illegal firearm, recover live ammunition
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
Police in Mzuzu have arrested a 45 year old man, Orman Kamanga for allegedly possessing a firearm and ammunition without a valid licence.
Confirming the arrest, Mzuzu Police Station public relations officer Inspector Augustus Nkhwazi said the suspect was apprehended on Sunday afternoon around 3:00pm at Chapongolera Village in Nkhata Bay District.
Inspector Nkhwazi explained that police acted on a tip from concerned community members who reported that Kamanga, recently returned from South Africa, was in possession of a pistol and had allegedly threatened to shoot his relatives following a land dispute.
“Upon receiving the information, officers from the Mzuzu Police 997 Rapid Response Team swiftly proceeded to the area and successfully arrested the suspect,” said Nkhwazi.
A subsequent search of Kamanga’s house led to the recovery of a pistol along with four live rounds of ammunition.
According to police, the suspect claimed during questioning that he bought the pistol in South Africa and insisted it was merely a toy.
However, a detailed inspection conducted by the station’s armourer established that the weapon is a genuine firearm.
“The firearm has been identified as a Browning Hi-Power pistol, also known as GP 35. It is not a toy as alleged. Its serial number had been tampered with, making it impossible to trace,” Nkhwazi said.
Police have since launched further investigations to determine whether the firearm may have been used in other criminal activities.
Kamanga is expected to appear in court soon to face relevant charges.
Kamanga comes from Chapongolera Village under Traditional Authority Kabunduli in Nkhata Bay District.
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