Police in Mangochi have arrested a traditional healer and a kabaza operator for being found in possession of a live pangolin, a protected species under Malawi’s wildlife laws.
The suspects have been identified as Amin Ngosi, 62, and Moses George, 44, both from Kambulire Village, Traditional Authority Chimwala in Mangochi.
The two were arrested on the evening of August 11, 2026, at Changali along the Arthur Peter Mutharika Highway following a tip-off from community members that they were in possession of a live pangolin and were on their way to Chilipa.
Acting on the information, Mangochi police detectives, in coordination with officials from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, rushed to the area and apprehended suspects. They were found with the live pangolin hidden in a carton.
During interrogation, it was established that the first suspect had kept the pangolin at his compound for three days and intended to use its scales for traditional medicine. However, he later changed his mind and agreed with his friend, the kabaza operator, to transport the animal to Chilipa.
According to statistics, from January 2026 to date, this is the first case of Pangolin(two suspects) to have been registered, compared to two cases (three suspects) recorded during the same period last year.
Police findings attribute the reduction in wildlife-related offences to increased community awareness, effective intelligence gathering, strong relationships with community members, stiffer penalties and enhanced collaboration among the Police, Wildlife and Judiciary departments.
The duo will appear before court to answer a charge of illegal possession of specimens of listed species, contrary to Section 110(b) of the National Parks and Wildlife Act, once all documentation is completed.
Police in Mangochi have since warned the public against engaging in the illegal trade of wildlife and called for continued cooperation in protecting endangered species.
lnspector Amina Tepani Daudi
PRO- Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999-706-525
Email:amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website:www.police.gov.mw