By Chisomo Phiri
On August 19, 2024, the Mulanje Magistrate Court will resume hearing a criminal case involving two police officers and a businessman charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a 13-year-old boy, resulting in the amputation of his arms.
The two police officers, Charles Mbewe and Stanley Chigaru, who were based at the Misanjo Police Unit in Mulanje District at the time of the alleged offenses, are also facing charges of common assault and neglect of official duty.
During the court hearing on Monday and Tuesday, Senior Resident Magistrate Glory Mwatiwamba heard testimony from two of the State’s eight witnesses, led by Director of Litigation (South) Josephine Gwaza.
The court learned that the boy, who was accused by the police of stealing money from businessman Mabvuto Chikhwaza (also an accused in the case), was thrown into a cell with his hands tied behind his back with a rubber belt from elbow to wrist.
The case has sparked outrage and concern about police brutality and the treatment of minors in custody.
The court’s decision will be closely watched as it sets a precedent for accountability and justice in such cases.
