A 17-year-old boy with albinism is battling for his life at Holy Family Mission Hospital in Phalombe after being hacked by unknown people.

Phalombe Police Spokesperson Augustus Nkhwazi confirmed of the development in an interview with the press.

According to Nkhwazi, the victim identified as Alfred Chikalo met his fate on Sunday night while sleeping in his house.

“At around 23:00 hours, unknown thugs armed with panga knives broke into the house where the boy was sleeping. The suspected thugs started hacking him, but escaped after noting that well-wishers were coming to rescue the boy who shouted for help,” he said.

He said the boy was found in pool of blood after sustaining deep stab wounds in the head, both arms and on the upper part of the left leg.

Nkhwazi said Police have since launched a man-hunt for suspected criminals.