Nsanje First Grade Magistrate Alex Masanjala has recused himself from the case involving Nsanje hyena man accused of having sex with over 100 young girls without protection despite knowing fully well that he is HIV positive.

Eric Aniva was arrested last month by the Police after admitting to British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that he is what’s known as a ‘hyena’ – a man paid to have sex with young girls as a form of ritual cleansing.

On August 5, 2016 Aniva together with his co-accused Theniford Jampa appeared before the Nsanje Magistrate court to answer the charge of harmful practices.

Jampa was released on bail while Aniva was denied bail saying his case was sensitive.

But in a twist of event, the presiding magistrate Alex Masanjala has recused himself from the case, saying he want to remain neutral on the matter.

The state has confirmed of the development in an interview with the press, saying the new magistrate to replace Masanjala will be identified soon.

Aniva is still being remanded at Nsanje Police.