Police in Chitipa have arrested a 40-year-old Zambian national, Wezi Wesley Simwaka, in connection with the brutal murder of Group Village Headman Mwanyanja of Mwenje, under Senior Chief Nthalire in Chitipa District.

Chitipa Assistant Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Mfune, confirmed the arrest, stating that Simwaka was apprehended following an intensive police investigation into the killing.

The late village head, identified as Mapuzi Kaonga, aged 65, was murdered on January 12, 2025, near his home. His body was discovered along an earth road within his village, bearing severe head injuries. The attack is suspected to have been motivated by witchcraft accusations.

Simwaka, who hails from Traditional Authority Mwenechifungwe in Mafinga District, Zambia, is expected to appear in court soon to answer a murder charge. Investigations are ongoing.