Mulli joins star-studded procession to hospital bedside of hero cop shot in kidnap rescue

Malawian business magnate Leston Mulli has become the latest high-profile figure to visit wounded police chief Noel Kayira in hospital, branding kidnapping “evil” and heaping praise on the Malawi Police Service for its bravery in rescuing kidnapped British national Nusrat Osman.

Mulli visited Deputy Inspector General of Police for Operations Kayira at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in Blantyre, where the officer remains under treatment after being shot during Thursday’s dramatic rescue mission.

“We thank God for saving the two. Kidnapping remains evil. The Malawi Police Service has demonstrated ultra-professionalism,” Mulli said, describing the crime as retrogressive to the country’s economy.

Kayira was wounded during the operation to free Osman, who had been held captive since being snatched from outside her Mount Pleasant home the previous week, in a kidnapping that gripped the nation and triggered a massive police manhunt.

Mulli’s visit adds his name to a growing list of prominent figures who have flocked to Kayira’s bedside since the shooting, including Vice-President Dr Jane Ansah, Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito, Health Minister Madalitso Baloyi, Deputy Inspector General of Police Evalista Chisale and Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga.

The steady procession of dignitaries to the hospital underscores the wave of gratitude sweeping the country for Kayira’s bravery, with the officer being widely hailed as a hero for his role in bringing Osman’s terrifying ordeal to a safe end.