The High Court in Lilongwe has given the Police the 10 day-ultimatum to surrender the phone, driving licence belonging to the first accused in the attempted murder of former Budget Director Paul Mphwiyo.

Justice Michael Mtambo made the ruling on Tuesday when Macdonald Kumwembe, former Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldier asked the court to help him get his phone and driving licence which police is keeping.

In his complaint, Kumwembe said Detective Chilinda is the one who took away his two phones and driving licence during his arrest in 2013 but after the court release order he was only given one phone and keep on walking to police to get the remaining phone and driving licence.

When questioned by the court, Director of Public Prosecution Mary Kachale apologized to the court and asked for more time to speak with police who she says are the ones keeping the things.

The Judge Michael Mtambo issued an order that the State should tell the police to surrender the two items to Kumwembe within 10 days.

Kumwembe is answering two charges of conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder with the second accused person Pika Manondo while former Justice Minister Ralph Kasambara is answering one charge.

The case has since been adjourned to Tuesday next week.