Malawi Police baffled with increased sexual assault cases in Phalombe

Malawi Police in southern district of Phalombe have expressed worry over increased cases of defilement in this year’s second quarter in the district.

According to Phalombe Police Station, 10 defilement cases have been reported at the station in this second quarter (April, May and June 2015) compared to seven cases reported during the same period last year.

“This shows an increase of 30% this year. Out of the 7 cases reported last year, five cases were taken to court of law where three convictions were made, one case was withdrawn and another case saw suspect being acquitted. Two cases are still under investigations.

“Of the 10 reported cases in 2015, all have already been taken to court and four convictions have so far been made. The remaining cases are under various stages of prosecution,” said Phalombe Police publicist August Nkhwazi.

Nkhwazi said at the moment they have rolled out awareness meetings to sensitise and encourage communities to take part in the fight against the vice.

“Police would like to request members of the public, government and non-governmental institutions, religious and traditional leaders to assist in the fight against this evil in the district,” said Nkhwazi.

One of the people answering sexual assault charges is musician Joe Gwaladi. He is answering charges of unlawful sex with a 14-year-old girl.

The Tumbocid hitmaker pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against him when he first appeared in court on Thursday.

According to police, the 14-year-old victim is friends with one of Gwaladi’s three wives and on this day she visited her at her house and she slept over.