Former President Arthur Peter Mutharika and former first lady Gertrude Mutharika said they are deeply shocked following the arrest of their son, Tadikira Mafubza.

Tadikira was arrested last week in connection to the death of the 30 people who were found buried in a mass grave at Mtangatanga Forest in Mzimba.

In a statement signed by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) spokesperson Shadrick Namalomba, the former first couple said looking at the circumstances of the case and the conduct of state agencies on the matter, they have come to the conclusion that the arrest is not justified by facts.

The statement said it is on record that the driver of the van in question clearly stated that Tadikira did not have any knowledge that the vehicle was used to carry out illicit activities.