Mangochi Police Station says it has recorded 35 cases of defilement from January to date, compared to 21 cases recorded during the same period last year. The station says the increase is worrying.
The latest case involves a 31-year-old primary school teacher who has been arrested for allegedly defiling his 14-year-old Standard 7 pupil.
The suspect has been identified as Davie Chunga, a teacher at Mpondasi Primary School in Mangochi Township. He was apprehended on Sunday, 26 July 2026, following a report made by the victim’s parents.
According to police Mangochi Police Station Public Relations Officer Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi,the incident occurred after the learner was returning home from church. It is alleged that Chunga met the girl along the way and invited her to his house under the pretext of conducting extra lessons.
Daudi added that once at his house, police say the suspect asked the pupil to cook nsima before he allegedly abused her. After the incident, it is further alleged that Chunga gave the victim K10,000 and she then left for home.
“The girl arrived home around 6:00 p.m. When her parents questioned her about her whereabouts after church, she disclosed that she had spent the afternoon at her teacher’s house and narrated the ordeal to them.”, She explained
The matter was later reported to the Police Station where the victim was issued with a referral letter to Mangochi District Hospital for a medical examination. Results from the hospital however confirmed that the minor had been sexually abused.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident involving a person who is supposed to protect learners. Parents should also speak openly with their children so that such cases are reported early,” said Inspector Daudi.
31- year-old Chunga has been charged with defilement, contrary to Section 138 of the Penal Code. He is expected to appear in court upon completion of investigations. The suspect hails from Pezupezu village, Traditional Authority Mzikubola in Mzimba District.
