The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) has challenged the Malawi Police Service to dismantle the criminal networks behind the recent spate of abductions. CHRR executive director Michael Kaiyatsa stated that authorities must establish who was behind the abduction of British national Nusrat Osman, the motive, the source of firearms, and whether wider criminal networks are involved. The Centre also called for reasonable updates on investigations and prosecutions.
Osman, 47, was reportedly abducted in Blantyre on September 11 by four unidentified men travelling in a Nissan Dualis. Deputy Inspector of Police Noel Kayira took a bullet in a crossfire to rescue her on September 17. Police said the suspects, Mozambican national Marcolino Munguambe, 43, and Malawian Limbani Anthony, 44, later died at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. The incident raised concerns about the security situation in the country.
Police Inspector General Richard Luhanga said investigations continue and that the motive remains unknown, with no ransom demand established. However, CHRR raised concern over conflicting numbers of suspects killed during the operation. Police initially reported that four suspects were shot dead before Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga later said two had died. The Centre stated that the absence of a clear explanation risks undermining public confidence in the police's handling of the operation.
The rights group also cited secrecy over the February abduction of Crossroads Hotel managing director Sameer Sacranie, who returned home after 33 days. CHRR expressed concern over unanswered questions regarding the case. Kaiyatsa said police should establish not only the perpetrators and accomplices but also the source of firearms, vehicles, financing, and other logistical support.
A retired police officer, who asked not to be named, said prolonged police silence creates room for speculation and fear, although investigations require some information to remain confidential. The officer's comments highlight the challenges faced by the police in balancing the need for secrecy during investigations with the need for transparency and public trust.
Security analyst Alex Chisiano said kidnapping cases had previously been handled by police without attracting the same level of public attention, but high-profile victims had increased pressure on the service to provide updates. He said the involvement of influential people could also complicate police efforts to provide information and urged a return to professional and independent policing.
Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito, Luhanga, and police spokesperson Gladys Chiwaula could not be reached for comment. However, an update on Saturday on the Osman kidnapping case, Chiwaula said the police remain committed to safeguarding public safety, protecting citizens' rights, and maintaining peace and order nationwide.
Key points
- CHRR urges police to investigate kidnapping networks and provide updates on investigations and prosecutions.
- The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation expresses concern over conflicting numbers of suspects killed during the operation.
- Security analyst Alex Chisiano urges a return to professional and independent policing in handling kidnapping cases.
