An angry mob at Demakudi village in Nkhatabay District has killed a 49-year-old man suspected to have been stealing maize in a garden.

Elia Mvula, who had a track record of criminal activities met his fate when he was brutally murdered on Saturday night after being caught in the act of stealing green maize.

He was severely beaten and taken to Village Head Demakudi while unconscious.

The traditional leader reported the matter to Nkhatabay Police Station who in turn rushed the victim to the district hospital for treatment where death was pronounced.

An autopsy report indicates that the deceased had succumbed to internal bleeding.

Mvula hailed from Demakudi Village of Traditional Authority Timbiri in Nkhata Bay District.

Meanwhile, Nkhatabay Police is advising members of the community to avoid taking laws into their hands but should rather opt for proper justice channels to present their grievances.