Information reaching our desk indicates that business in the capital of Malawi, Lilongwe, has come to a standstill due to a violent confrontation between a group of unknown armed men carrying machetes and another group of youths.

Reports suggest that many shops have been closed as the running battles continue.

The armed men are preventing people from gathering at the Lilongwe Community Ground, the designated starting point for planned demonstrations organized by opposition political parties.

Meanwhile, authorities are yet to comment on the matter.

More details to follow…