Malawi Police, in the last four months since January, have arrested 476 individuals in connection with defilement cases involving children under the age of 18, a significant rise from 344 arrests recorded during the same period last year—signaling a deeply troubling national trend.
Deputy National Police Spokesperson Harry Namwaza confirmed the figures, expressing concern over the sharp increase in cases. According to Namwaza, the persistent rise is being driven in part by harmful cultural myths, including the false belief that having sexual intercourse with a child brings wealth or good fortune.
“This is a serious criminal offense. Anyone found guilty faces a prison sentence of over ten years,” warned Namwaza. He appealed to the public to join the fight against child sexual abuse by protecting children and reporting suspected cases.
With a proactive stance in safeguarding children, the Malawi Police Service has recently intensified efforts to bring perpetrators of defilement to justice. Police’s work sends a clear message: such violations will not be tolerated, and law enforcement is fully committed to ensuring that offenders face the full force of the law.
Recently, Police in Lilongwe arrested actor Tumpe Mtaya alias Phwedo for allegedly sleeping with a girl aged 15. Phwedo has since been released on bail waiting for his case to come to court. Phwedo’s arrest came just ahead of the launch of a new movie featuring the star-Welcome to Maula Prison.
As the nation confronts this rising threat to children’s safety and well-being, the need for sustained awareness, stronger community involvement, and tougher legal enforcement has never been more urgent. The public is urged to stand with the police in ending the exploitation of vulnerable minors and upholding the rights and dignity of every child in Malawi.
