35-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Alleged Act of Grievous Harm on Two Girls

Malawi - A 35-year-old woman from Alufazema village in the area of Senior Chief Mlolo in Nsanje, Pilirani Damiano, has been arrested for allegedly committing an act intended to cause grievous harm to two young girls, writes Cornelius Lupenga.

District Police Station Public Relations Officer, Sub-Inspector Agnes Zalakoma, confirmed the arrest of the suspect.

According to Sub-Inspector Zalakoma, the incident occurred in March of this year when Damiano assaulted two girls, ages 14 and 12, by forcing them to place their hands on fire.

The girls were suspected of stealing fresh maize from Damiano's garden, and as a result, they suffered serious burns.

"Upon realizing the extent of the harm the act caused to her own children, the mother reported the matter to the Fatima Police Unit days after the incident," said Sub-Inspector Zalakoma.

Police conducted a follow-up investigation to arrest the suspect, but she had been at large. Further enquiries revealed that Damiano had sought refuge in Mozambique, taking advantage of her close proximity to the neighbouring country.

"Police detectives, working on a tip-off from well-wishers, managed to arrest the suspect in the early hours of April 8th, 2023," added Sub-Inspector Zalakoma.

Damiano is expected to appear in court soon, facing charges of acts intended to cause grievous harm, contrary to Section 235 of the penal code.

The community in Alufazema village has been shocked by the incident, with many expressing their concern over the alleged act of violence against the young girls.

Local authorities are urging residents to use legal means to address grievances and refrain from taking matters into their own hands.

"We condemn such acts of violence, and the police will continue to take decisive action against anyone found engaging in such behaviour," stated Sub-Inspector Zalakoma.

The case continues to be investigated, and Damiano remains in custody pending her court appearance.