Angry villagers at Jeka in the area of Traditional Authority Chikulamayembe in Rumphi have destroyed three houses belonging to a murder suspect identified as Bright Chembe.

Rumphi Police Station Spokesperson Sergeant Tupeliwe Kabwilo has confirmed of the development in an interview with the press.

Chembe is accused of killing Leonard Lupwayi 47 for failing to pay back 14 000 Kwacha unsettled bill for beer at his bottlestole.

According to information at hand, the suspected tried many attempts to recover the money but all means proved futile.

The move forced the suspect to beat up the deceased, leaving him unconscious.

The victim was later taken to Rumphi district hospital where he died while receiving medical treatment.

The suspect is currently in police custody.