Police arrest suspected fugitive in Balaka

Police in Balaka have arrested a man who allegedly bolted from Kachere Police Unit in Limbe with eight other suspects after stealing a rifle and rounds of ammunition.

Balaka Police spokesperson Titani Chadwala on Sunday said two police officers re-arrested Ali Missi (29) at Kachenga Village following a tip-off.

He said Missi was scheduled to be transferred to Limbe Police.  Said Chadwala: “He is the only one to be re-arrested after the escape on March 4 2012. He told us that he was in the company of three escapees at some point. Missi is suspected of burglary and theft.”

The nine escaped from custody after breaking their cell and then stealing a BXP rifle with seven rounds of ammunition and a 303 weapon with five rounds of ammunition.

Two police officers were subsequently arrested for allegedly allowing the suspects to escape from custody.