Mulanje police have arrested 35-year-old Mikeyasi Jackson for injuring four people and destroying their property, allegedly due to the belief that they were causing rain.

Police spokesperson for the district, Innocent Moses, confirmed that the incident occurred last Tuesday in the villages of Chilombo, Matewere, and Natawa under the leadership of Chief Juma. The injured victims include Mary Jini (80), Ellen Laudon (61), Eliza Master (18), and Olivia Malikebu (30).

Moses explained, “Jackson and others in these villages went to the homes of these individuals and engaged in violent acts such as beating, damaging houses, uprooting their crops, and stealing their belongings. This led to Mary Jini being hospitalized, while the others received medical treatment.”

The police are continuing their investigation and working to arrest all individuals involved. They are also urging the public to avoid taking matters into their own hands and to respect the rule of law.

Jackson, from Chimtengo village in Mulanje, is facing three charges: causing bodily harm, destruction of property, and theft.