At least nine individuals have been arrested in Ntchisi for allegedly unlawfully settling in Fumbati Forest Reserve without proper authorization.

Salomy Zgambo, spokesperson for the police, confirmed that the arrests took place yesterday during a joint operation involving the police, Ntchisi Forest Department, African Parks, and local communities from Senior Chief Nthondo’s area, where the forest is located.

Among the suspects are Amos Dryison (32), Rodric Masauko (35), Peter Redson (32), and Daud Mtila (21), who face charges of environmental depletion within the forest.

Ntchisi Forest Officer, Jim Lukwale, reported that the operation also resulted in the destruction of crops, including Indian hemp, and the burning of structures belonging to the suspects.

Authorities have assured that efforts are ongoing to fully evict all encroachers from the forest reserve.