Police in Namwera, Mangochi have arrested 19-year-old Botomani Martin in connection with the brutal murder of Brian Alabi, 5, from Mkwesa Village, Traditional Authority Bwananyambi.
Martin was apprehended on the evening of June 10, 2025, at Chiponde area with the help from members of the community. He had been on the run for several days and was attempting to flee to Mozambique.
Brian’s body was discovered on June 5, 2025, a day after he was reported missing. Villagers noticed a dog barking while digging in a nearby garden and, upon closer inspection, saw human fingers protruding from the soil. Police, accompanied by a clinical officer from Chiponde Health Centre, responded to the scene and exhumed the body.
A postmortem examination revealed that Brian died of strangulation caused by a twisted neck and head injuries. The body also showed signs of severe trauma, including punctured eyes and bleeding from the nose and mouth, prompting an immediate investigation.
In his preliminary confession, Martin admitted to committing the crime alongside five accomplices who remain at large. He further claimed that they were hired by a man from Mozambique who allegedly seeks to become a traditional chief and intended to use the boy for ritual purposes.
Police investigations also revealed that Martin is a habitual offender, although previous offences were not officially reported as they were resolved at community level severally.
He has since been charged with murder, which contravenes Section 209 of the Penal Code, and will appear before court upon completion of investigations. Meanwhile, police are actively hunting for the remaining suspects.
Mangochi Police have extended their gratitude to the public for their continued support and cooperation in the fight against crime.
Martin hails from Mkwesa village, Traditional Authority Bwananyambi in Mangochi.
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