Senior Resident Magistrate Rodrick Michongwe has discharged two police officers alleged to have shot and killed three fishermen at Lake Chilwa in Zomba.

The two officers, namely Steven Pahuwa and Steven Pahuwawere arrested following a February 13 fracas where the officers who were patrolling the lake shot the fishermen who were allegedly conducting illegal fishing at the lake.

In his ruling, Michongwe noted that evidence from six state witnesses indicated that the act was done in self-defence from rioting fishermen.

He said Section 30 of the Police Act warrants an officer to use a gun in the event that the officers are under attack.

He also highlighted that the police did not bring substantial evidence on the case.

The two, who were being remanded at Zomba Central Prison, have since been released.