Police in Blantyre are keeping in custody at least 15 for encroaching Michiru Forest Reserve.

Blantyre Police spokesperson Sub Inspector Peter Mchiza confirmed of the development.

According to Mchiza, the encroachers were doing farming and charcoal burning in the protected area, hence their arrests.

Mchiza added that the people have already appeared before the court where they are answering three offenses.

The encroachers have been charged of land encroachment, destroying vegetation and entering the forest without permission.