Three Arrested for Armed Robbery and Murder in Mzuzu
Police in Mzuzu have arrested three men suspected of being behind a series of armed robberies and a high-profile murder that have rocked the city in recent months.
The suspects Elia Levison, 30, Jimmy Nyirenda, 36, and Jimmy Adam, 42 were apprehended on May 13 following intensive investigations by Mzuzu Police Station.
According to law enforcement officials, Levison was the first to be arrested in the Katoto area. His capture led police to Sozibele Lines Township, where Nyirenda and Adam were later found. However, the arrest operation turned violent when another suspect, Patrick Phiri, 30, pointed a loaded pistol at officers in an attempt to resist arrest. He was shot and later died while receiving treatment at Mzuzu Central Hospital.
Police say the suspects were involved in a robbery on May 10, 2025, in Luwinga Township, where they allegedly stole K5 million and a Samsung smartphone valued at K1 million from mobile money operator Andrew Katona. The suspects reportedly fired three live rounds into the air to instill fear during the incident.
The investigation also linked the trio to a major heist involving K100 million, which was stolen from Indian businessman Hassim Irfan in the Mapale area on April 24. Further inquiries tied them to the murder of businessman Chiukepo Sichali, who was gunned down at his home in Mchengautuwa on March 27.
During a raid at a residence in Sozibele Lines, police recovered a blue Toyota Vitz (registration number NA 6601) believed to have been used during the robberies. Officers also seized a pistol loaded with six live rounds, an additional 52 rounds of ammunition, two mattresses, a home theatre system, a 42-inch plasma television, and 40 bags of cement all believed to be connected to the crimes.
Police say the suspects have confessed to their involvement in the crimes. They are expected to appear in court soon to face charges of murder and armed robbery, contrary to Sections 209 and 300 as read with Section 301 of the Penal Code.
