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More suspects arrested in Karonga fracas

Nine more people have been arrested in connection with the Karonga witchcraft-related fracas, bringing to 13 the number of suspects.

Northern Region Police spokesperson Peter Kalaya yesterday confirmed the arrests, saying the 13, currently remanded at Chitipa Prison, are facing charges of theft, malicious damage and arson.

He said the police are also working on recovering items stolen from houses vandalised during the fracas.

One of the houses demolished in the fracas

“Due to the Easter holiday, the suspects were remanded at Chitipa Prison. However, we expect them to start appearing in court soon,” said Kalaya.

Traditional Authority Kyungu prayed for stiffer punishments for those found guilty to avert a recurrence of such incidents.

The chief also called for the arrest of the herbalist who advised the suspects that one of the family members was responsible for the missing of their father.

The herbalist, alleged to have duped the people about K400 000 in consultation fees, is still at large.

The victims of the fracas are still being supported by Karonga District Council and are being housed at the council’s old guest house.

The fracas left 26 people, including the elderly and14 children, homeless after their houses were demolished and property burnt over witchcraft accusations.

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