7 Ethiopians to Spend two months in jail before deported

First Grade Magistrate court in Mzuzu has convicted 11 Ethiopians on 19 April,2024 for contravening section 21(1) of the Immigration Act.

The court through Immigration State Prosecutor, Inspector Bright Matemba narrated to the court that all the 11 Ethiopians were arrested on 18th April,2024 whilst hiding around the shores of Hangalawe in Karonga. Additionally, the court heard that the Ethiopians were not in possession of Passport or Visa hence their arrest, and the State Prosecutor lobbied for after apprehension decision of a punishment that should deter other would be offenders.

First Grade Magistrate Robert Makaika sentenced 7 Ethiopians to 2 months Imprisonment with Hard Labour. Additionally, the Court recommended to the Minister of Homeland Security to deport the convicts after serving their sentences in pursuant to section 39 of the Immigration Act.

First Grade Magistrate Clement Mwamale pursued the case of other 4 Ethiopians at Child Justice Court. The court found the 4 Ethiopians guilty of illegal entry offence contrary to section 21(1) of Immigration Act and did not give a custodial sentence or fine but recommended to the Minister of Homeland Security for deportation of the 4 within a month.

Sergeant Francis Chitambuli Public Relations Officer North said all the convicts are at Mzuzu prison, where as 7 are serving the jail sentence and the 4 are waiting for Ministers determination on deportation.