Police in Balaka have arrested Fortiner Matias, a 36-year-old driver, on suspicion of stealing goats valued at K1,100,000. According to Balaka Police spokesperson Mphatso Muthali, the incident took place during the nights of October 8th and 9th in Kachisi Village, under Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka.

The owner of the goats, Laitoni, reportedly discovered the theft early in the morning when he found his animal pen open and 19 goats missing. Following the report, police investigations led to the arrest of Matias, who was caught washing his car, which had bloodstains at the time.

Under questioning, Matias is said to have confessed to the crime, admitting that he transported the stolen goats using his vehicle and later left them at the house of Chitani Mbalame, located at Bawi Market in Ntcheu District.

However, police have yet to apprehend Mbalame, who reportedly fled upon realizing the police were closing in. Investigations are still underway to capture Mbalame and any other individuals involved in the crime.

Fortiner Matias hails from Namalanga Village, under Traditional Authority Changata in Thyolo District.