Mzuzu Police Warn Communities Against Witchcraft Accusations

Mzuzu, Malawi -Mzuzu police have issued a warning to communities in Mzuzu and surrounding areas, cautioning them against accusing or attacking others over witchcraft allegations, writes Tionge Hara.

According to Constable Rose Chipyola, assistant spokesperson for Mzuzu police, there is currently no statute in Malawi that allows citizens to accuse each other of witchcraft.

Chipyola urged community members to promptly report any incidents of such accusations or attacks so that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

The warning comes after the police arrested five people in the Mchengautuba location within Mzuzu City for allegedly employing a witchfinder and charging a person with witchcraft.

The suspects, identified as Gabriel Phiri, Linda Mkandawire, Tryness Mhango, Stella Mkandawire, and Hastings Kumwenda, are set to appear before the court to answer two charges of employing a witchfinder and charging a person with witchcraft, which is contrary to Section 4 of the Witchcraft Act.

Reports indicate that the accusations began in January 2023, when children from Kamfyokoto village mentioned the names of people alleged to be witches and wizards and were taught to practice witchcraft.

This caused concern among the villagers, who then engaged a witchfinder.

On April 25, the witchfinder arrived and began his activities in the area, prompting well-wishers to tip off the police.

The police quickly intervened, rescuing the person accused of practising witchcraft and arresting the five suspects.

All the suspects are from Mzimba District.