A 41-year-old woman, identified as Gladys Lingoni, has been arrested in Makawa after fleeing from authorities. She is accused of setting her 6-year-old son, Davie Mulenga, on fire for eating soya pieces intended for supper.
On September 1, 2024, Lingoni allegedly fled Matuwi 2 village under Traditional Authority Mponda, leaving her son with severe burns after she wrapped his hands in plastic and set them on fire upon discovering that he had eaten all the relish.
The boy was rushed to Mangochi District Hospital, where he was admitted for two days. Due to the severity of the burns on his hands, he was later transferred to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital for further treatment.
On September 6, 2024, after local media reported that Lingoni was wanted by Mangochi Police, concerned citizens spotted her at Makawa Trading Centre. They informed members of the Community Policing Forum, who arrested her and handed her over to Makokola Police Unit.
During questioning, Lingoni claimed she was frustrated with her son’s behavior of “stealing relish” and wanted to teach him a lesson.
The suspect has been charged with acts intended to cause grievous harm, under Section 235 of the Penal Code. She will appear in court after the completion of paperwork.
Police have expressed their gratitude to the public for their assistance in the case and thanked the media for helping disseminate the information.
Lingoni hails from Sadibwa village, Traditional Authority Mkanda in Mulanje.
Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Public Relations Officer
Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999-706-525
Email:amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website:www.police.gov.mw