Police in Lilongwe have arrested a 67-year old man for allegedly stealing cash, phones and other valuables from women who offered him free lift within town.
According to Lilongwe Police Station Deputy Public Relations Officer Foster Benjamin, the suspect identified as Peter Phiri, has been tricking unsuspecting women to offer him a lift.
“When picked, he would steal their purses which would have cash, cellphones, ATM cards, and national identity cards before dropping off,” said Benjamin.
In the latest case, Phiri convinced a lawyer who gave him a lift from Sana Cash & Carry which is near the city’s Lizulu Market to Kamuzu Central Hospital Roundabout.
“On the way, he stole the unsuspecting victim’s purse containing K80, 000 cash; a Huawei Mate Pro 10 cellphone valued at K700, 000; a drivers license; an ATM card and a golf club membership card, explains Benjamin.
The victim reported the matter to police, leading to the suspect’s arrest after an investigation.
So far, Phiri has three cases registered at Lilongwe Police Station.
He hails from Amon Village Traditional Authority Mkanda in Mchinji and is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of theft, contrary to Section 278 of the Penal code.
