Police in Machinga have arrested 20 people in connection with an attack on a forest ranger who was brutally injured in Chikala Hills last week.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Western Kansire has confirmed of the arrest in an interview with the press.

According to Kansire, the suspects have been charged with theft, vandalism, and unlawful wounding of a forest ranger on duty.

The forest ranger, Daudi Adam, was hacked around the face by angry villagers who were demanding the release of their eight relatives who were arrested in Chikala Hills on suspicion that they were producing charcoal.

Several environmental advocacy groups have condemned the attack and called for the improvement of the welfare of forest and game rangers for effective conservation of the environment.