Four Killed in Karonga Road Crash

Four people have died and several others injured following a road accident that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Tenenthe hilly area along the Chitipa–Karonga M26 road.

Karonga Police have identified the deceased as Moses Ngosi, 31, from Village Mwawembe under Traditional Authority Kyungu in Karonga, alongside Innocent Sikana, Steven Junior, and an unidentified male. All were passengers in the ill-fated vehicle.

According to police, the accident involved a Mitsubishi Canter 3-tonne lorry, registration number KK 9912, driven by Moses Mvula, 39, from Village Malawa under Traditional Authority Mwenewenya in Chitipa. The vehicle was travelling from Chitipa towards Karonga, carrying bags of beans and approximately ten passengers who were seated on top of the load.

Upon reaching the Tenenthe area, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle while descending a steep slope and negotiating bends. The lorry veered off the road, struck a road embankment, and overturned.

The four victims sustained severe head and internal injuries and were pronounced dead upon arrival at Karonga District Hospital. The driver and other passengers suffered various injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the same facility. The vehicle was extensively damaged in the punishment.

Karonga Police have since issued a strong warning to the public against boarding open vehicles or sitting on top of goods, describing the practice as dangerous and potentially fatal, particularly on hilly terrain. Authorities have also warned that drivers found transporting passengers in such conditions will face arrest and prosecution.

Police Public Relations Officer for Karonga, Sub Inspector Rose Chipyola, confirmed the incident and reiterated the need for strict adherence to road safety regulations.