In an effort to curb child marriages in Mangochi, police in the district in conjunction with social welfare office disrupted an engagement ceremony between a 19-year old boy who wanted to tie a knot with a 16-year old girl.
The incident occurred in the afternoon of Sunday November 15, 2020 at Mchocholo Village, Traditional Authority Mponda.
The two organizations were tipped by members of the community that the girl in question who is a standard 7 pupil was getting married despite the disapproval of her parents.
Following the tip, the team which was led by Mangochi assistant social welfare officer, Harvey Mbwenzo rushed to the place and successfully disrupted the engagement ceremony which was about to happen.
In the meantime, the husband, Samson M’mamiwa from Senga Village, Traditional Authority Mponda in Mangochi is in custody for further investigations.
Police is hereby reminding the public that any person who is under the age of 18 is regarded as a child and according to the law of Malawi such a person is not eligible for marriage.
Additionally, police wish to thank stakeholders and members of the public for their vigilance in implementing by-laws against child marriages and supporting the police in the fight against child marriages in Mangochi.
Sub Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Deputy PRO-Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999 706 525
Email:mamateps1152@gmail.com