Police at Jenda in Mzimba have arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly defiling an eight-year-old girl around Jenda Trading Centre in the district.

Publicist for Jenda Police Macfarlen Mseteka, has confirmed the arrest and identified the suspect as Emmanuel Khowoya.

According to Mseteka, the suspect was brought in police by members of the community after it was learnt that he forced the minor into having sexual intercourse with him on August 20, 2024 in his shop, where he charges phones and transfers music files.

It has been discovered that Khowoya is a regular customer at the victim’s mothers nearby restaurant. On the day of the incident, Khowoya took advantage of the mother’s absence, luring the child into his shop, where the assault took place.

Mseteka said Khowoya admitted to the crime after his arrest and will soon appear in court to answer his charges.