Police launch manhunt after woman raped in…

Police in Chipata District have launched a manhunt for a man accused of raping a 39‑year‑old woman in Zibazako Compound. Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the incident, which was reported to Chipata Central Police Station on June 9, 2026, at around 06:15 hours. He identified the named victim as aged 39, of Zibazako Compound while the suspect has been named as David Phiri, whose age is yet to be established.

Mr Mweemba disclosed that the attack occurred at about 03:24 hours on June 9 with preliminary investigations indicating that on the evening of June 8, the victim had visited her sister‑in‑law in the Referendum area and later began walking home with her baby, accompanied by her brother, Davison Miti. Along the way, they encountered the suspect, who allegedly accused the victim of owing him K50. Mr Mweemba said the victim then reportedly dragged her into a nearby bush while her brother attempted to intervene but was overpowered because the suspect was armed with a knife.

Mr Mweemba said the brother then left to seek help from nearby residents. During his absence, the suspect allegedly forced the victim to the ground and raped her and that by the time help arrived, the suspect had fled. Mr Mweemba said the victim sustained injuries, including pain in her private parts and general body pains. No arrest has been made, but police say efforts to track down the suspect have been intensified.