Five people (two males and three females) have died while 12 others sustained injuries after they were hit by a speeding motor vehicle while allegedly dancing on the road during celebrations for an initiation ceremony.
The tragedy occurred in the early hours of August 30, 2026, at Lundu Village along the Arthur Peter Mutharika Highway in Mangochi.
Three of the deceased have been identified as Zainab Mmadi, 16, of Chiganga Village, Traditional Authority Chimwala; Pilirani Henry, 36, of Kudamba Village, Traditional Authority Mlumbe in Zomba; and Fatima Wotchi, 13, of Mtami Village, Traditional Authority Chimwala. Two others are yet to be identified.
The accident involved a 2-ton Toyota Dyna registration number MH 5071, driven by 47-year-old Nsami Mwale, who was travelling from the direction of Liwonde towards Mangochi Boma while transporting soft drinks.
Upon reaching Lundu Village, the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle due to excessive speeding and hit a group of people who were dancing and occupying both sides of the road.
Following the impact, the five pedestrians sustained severe head injuries and were pronounced dead on arrival at Mangochi District Hospital.
Meanwhile, the other 12 pedestrians sustained injuries of varying degrees and are receiving treatment at Mangochi District Hospital.
The bodies of the two unidentified deceased persons, believed to have been among the drummers during the event, are being kept at Mangochi District Hospital mortuary pending identification by their relatives.
The driver is in police custody and is expected to appear before court upon completion of paperwork and other necessary formalities
Police are appealing to motorists to always exercise caution, reduce speed, and remain alert, especially when driving at night and through populated areas.
In addition, members of the public are strongly advised to refrain from dancing, gathering, or conducting any activities on the road, as this poses a serious danger to their lives and other road users.
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