The Mangochi Senior Resident Magistrate’s Court has convicted and sentenced 23-year-old musician Abdul-Karim Saidi, popularly known as Bandera Wachiyao, to three years imprisonment with hard labour (IHL) for abducting a 14-year-old Form 2 student. The offence contravenes Section 136 of the Penal Code.
The court heard through Station Prosecution Officer (SPO) Inspector Amos Mwase that on the night of January 2, 2025, the convict picked up the victim from Mpondas area and took her to a lodge where they spent two days.
SPO Mwase further told the court that during the victim’s absence, her mother attempted to contact her multiple times, but the calls went unanswered. When the minor insisted on returning home, the convict contacted the mother and assured her not to worry about the child’s whereabouts.
Acting cautiously, the mother, with assistance from family members, arranged a meeting with the convict. Upon his arrival, they apprehended him and handed him over to the police.
Appearing in court, the convict who was represented by Counsel Patrick Debwe pleaded not guilty, prompting the state to parade four witnesses who proved the case beyond reasonable doubt.
In mitigation, the convict pleaded for leniency, citing immaturity and asking the court to consider his youthful age and potential for reform.
In his submission, SPO Mwase emphasized that as a youthful musician, the convict holds considerable influence and is viewed as a role model by many young fans. He argued that this made his actions more serious, and a custodial sentence was necessary not only as punishment but also as a protective measure for young girls and a deterrent to others.
In his ruling, Senior Resident Magistrate Muhammad Chande concurred with the prosecution, stating that the offence was serious and needed a strong message to deter others from exploiting young girls. He then sentenced Bandera to three years IHL.
The convict hails from Kalonga Village, Traditional Authority Mponda, in Mangochi District.
lnspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Public Relations Officer
Mangochi Police Station
Cell: 0999-706-525
Email: amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website: www.police.gov.mw