By Lesnat Kenan

Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: Police in Mzuzu have arrested five suspects in connection with a spate of child lock theft cases that have targeted unsuspecting passengers in the city.

The suspects Moffat Gondwe (35), Harry Mchereka (30), Lloyd Mponda (26), Joseph Phiri (27), and Jafali Maundala (28) were arrested on June 21, 2025, in different locations within Mzuzu following an intelligence-led operation.

Deputy PRO for Mzuzu Police Station said, “These criminals would drive vehicles and offer people free rides to their destinations, pretending to know them, and at times posing as taxi drivers.”

Mfune said Police received multiple complaints and launched a targeted operation that led to the arrests.

She said, “The first two suspects were operating a yellow Daihatsu Esse (RU 7722), while the others used a white Honda Fit (BJ 10084). Both vehicles have since been seized.”

Mfune added that the suspects would trap passengers using the child lock mechanism, making it difficult for victims to exit the vehicles, before robbing them of mobile phones, cash, and other valuables.

She added that the suspects have already confessed to some of the crimes and that several victims have positively identified them which marks a significant breakthrough in tackling organised thefts in the city.

The suspects are expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of theft, which is contrary to Section 278 of the Penal Code.

Mzuzu Police have since advised the public to remain cautious when boarding unregistered or unfamiliar vehicles, even when offered a free ride.

The five suspects come from different districts across the country. Gondwe and Mchereka are from Mzimba District, under Traditional Authorities (T/As) Chindi and Mabulabo, respectively. Mponda hails from T/A Malemia in Zomba, while Phiri comes from T/A Njolomole in Ntcheu, and Maundala from T/A Kawinga in Machinga.