Police at Lingadzi Police Station in Lilongwe has arrested a couple for allegedly neglecting a 2-year-old male child, in violation of Section 165 of the Penal Code.

Deputy Public Relations Officer for Lingadzi Police, Constable Maria Kumwenda, identified the suspects as Isabel Mandawa, 23, and Samson Jumbe, 35.

The incident occurred on December 18, 2024, when Mandawa reportedly abandoned the child near Jumbe’s residence in Kauma, Lilongwe. Concerned residents found the child wandering and informed the police. The child was taken to Area 18 Health Center for medical care and examination.

Through an intelligence-driven operation, police located and arrested the parents on December 19, 2024.

The couple, who face charges of child neglect, will appear in court soon. Mandawa hails from Kaning’a Village, Traditional Authority Mwase, Kasungu, while Jumbe is from Pathama Village, Traditional Authority Biza, Zomba.