10 Students from Balaka Islamic Boys Secondary School in Custody for Alleged Gang-Rape, Robbery of Woman

Balaka, Malawi - Ten students from Balaka Islamic Boys Secondary School are currently in police custody on charges of raping and robbing a 27-year-old woman, writes Ousman Kaliati.

Deputy spokesperson for Balaka Police, Mphatso Munthali, confirmed the incident, stating the incident took place on May 13, 2023, at approximately 17:00 hours as the victim was returning from the main market to Mnthandizi.

According to Munthali, the woman encountered a group of boys near the school fence, and they began harassing her.

The situation escalated, leading to her being sexually assaulted and robbed of K7,500.00 in cash.

Munthali revealed that two of the students are in Form 2, three are in Form 4, and the remaining five are in Form 4.

After the victim reported the matter to the police, an identification parade was conducted, resulting in the arrest of the ten students who were identified by the victim herself.

The suspects are now awaiting their appearance before a court of law.

The victim, a resident of one of the villages in the districts, has endured a traumatic experience.

Authorities are taking the matter seriously and ensuring that appropriate legal action is taken against the accused students.

The Balaka Police will continue their investigation into the matter, seeking justice for the victim and sending a strong message against such criminal behaviour.