By Rahim Abdul
Police in Limbe are strongly condemning an incident of mob justice that led to the death of a 36-year-old man, Blessings Mtutile, who was brutally beaten by a group of villagers at Matalala Village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Somba, in Blantyre.
According to a statement released by Deputy Public Relations Officer Sub-Inspector Sam Kadyole, the tragic incident occurred in the early hours of September 5, 2025.
Reports indicate that Mtutile allegedly broke into a house in the same village during the night of September 4 to 5 with the intention to steal assorted household items.
Police investigations reveal that while Mtutile was inside the house the owner woke up after hearing strange movements and immediately raised an alarm, shouting for help.
The commotion alerted neighbors who rushed to the scene. Mtutile attempted to escape but was apprehended by the angry mob.
Later that morning, he was discovered lying unconscious in a nearby bush, badly injured and bleeding.
Limbe Police detectives quickly responded and rushed him to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Authorities have since opened a full investigation into the incident, vowing to track down and arrest all individuals involved in the brutal assault.
Police have emphasized that no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the circumstances.
“We strongly condemn this act of mob justice. While theft and other crimes are serious issues, resorting to violence only leads to more tragedy and undermines the justice system,” said Sub-Inspector Kadyole.
Police have urged community members to report suspected criminals to the nearest police station or community policing structures instead of engaging in mob attacks.
The body of the deceased has been released to the family for burial. Mtutile hailed from Matalala Village, T/A Somba in Blantyre District.
