Principal Resident Magistrate Court in Zomba has found Twalick Mpaweni, a police officer with two cases to answer bordering on defilement.
Mpaweni is answering two charges; having sexual intercourse with a minor and aiding a suspect to escape lawful custody.
Principal Resident Magistrate, Martin Chipofya, made the determination on Friday after the state paraded over 12 witnesses.
Vitumbiko Mbizi from Women Lawyers Association of Malawi (WLAM) representing the state expressed satisfaction with the court’s determination, saying justice is on its way to be realised.
Lawyer for the accused, Hanleck Ching’anda from Principal Legal Aid Advocate said the court’s decision was anticipated.
“We will parade three witnesses, and we are certain that these will punch holes in evidence provided by the state,” he said.
Mpaweni was arrested for allegedly defiling a minor at Kachulu Police Station in Zomba.
The court heard that Mpaweni had sexual intercourse with the minor in exchange for freedom after the latter was booked for theft.
It was heard that on the material day, Mpaweni, after having sex with the minor, provided a police flag to the girl for warmth after the midnight release.
The court has set 27 November 2024for the defence to parade its witnesses.
By Emily M’mangisa, Mana
