An angry mob in Nkhotakota has yester night set ablaze a 39 year man on suspicion of allegedly stealing sheep in Chalunda village.

Spokesperson for Nkhotakota police station, Paul Mwalimwe, has confirmed the sad development and identified the deceased as Malithano Chthumbwi who hailed from Chikwawe village Traditional Authority Nkhanga in the district.

No individual has been apprehended among the mob as Police is investigating the matter.

It is reported that the mob used dry maize stalks to burn the suspect due to the ongoing fuel shortage that prevented them from using petrol.

Chithumbwi was reportedly known for frequent thefts in the area and had been arrested multiple times in the past. This incident reflects rising frustrations in the community over crime and resource scarcity.