Police in Kasungu are keeping in custody three people for allegedly killing man who was caught red-handed stealing chickens in the district few weeks ago.

Kasungu Police spokesperson Joseph Kachikho has confirmed of the development in an interview with the press.

Kachikho said that the three identified as Simion Genesis 40, Chrissy Genesis 53 and Kachule Gwilire 53 killed Peter Phiri last month.

He said the three and others assaulted the suspect and dumped his body in a certain river in the district.

The suspects will appear in court soon to answer murder charges.

The law enforcers have since launched a manhunt of two other suspects who are currently on the run.