Police at Kawale have arrested two suspects for allegedly impersonating a Malawi Defence Force (MDF) officer and supplying military uniforms without proper authorisation.
The suspects are Leonard Photiwa, 18, from Nalikata Village, Traditional Authority Mkanda, Mulanje District, and Pichesi Chitenje, from Chilanga Village, Traditional Authority Mposa, Machinga District.
The incident came to light on October 25, 2026, at Area 23 Tambalale in Lilongwe, when a shop owner became suspicious after Photiwa, a regular customer, allegedly presented himself as an MDF officer and frequently appeared at the shop wearing military uniform.
According to reports, the suspect had obtained groceries worth K20,000 and a mobile phone valued at K40,000 from the shop on credit, but failed to settle the outstanding amount. When the shop owner questioned him about his workplace, they proceeded to Kamuzu Barracks Military Police for verification.
Police cordinated with military police officers to get his records but found no information confirming that Photiwa was an MDF officer. The suspect subsequently admitted that he was not a member of the MDF.
A search at his residence led to the recovery of several military uniforms. During questioning, Photiwa allegedly disclosed that he had purchased the uniforms from Chitenje, a tailor operating at Kamuzu Barracks.
Chitenje was subsequently arrested, and both suspects were handed over to Kawale Police for further investigations.
The two remain in police custody as investigations continue.
Sub-Inspector Precious Mabvuto Phiri
P.R.O-Kawale Police Station
Cell:0995873467/0884024149