MALAWI: Mzuzu Man Arrested For Allegedly Burning Ras Church And House

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi

Police in Mzuzu have arrested 29-year-old Ras Kepson Wali on suspicion of setting fire to a Ras Church and a nearby house in Mchengautuba, Mzuzu, during the night of June 6–7, 2025.

According to Mzuzu Police Deputy Public Relations Officer Sub-Inspector Cecelia Mfune, Wali allegedly caused a disturbance after demanding a higher leadership position within the Ras Church, which was recently built in Mchengautuba. His demands were reportedly rejected by other members of the church.

As a result, on the night in question, Wali is alleged to have gone to the church, set it on fire, and also damaged the windows and wall of a nearby house. The total value of the damaged property is estimated at K4.5 million.

Mfune said that after receiving the report, Mchengautuba police launched an investigation and apprehended Wali on June 13, 2025, in the Nambo area where he had been hiding. Police also recovered a bag in his possession containing Indian hemp (chamba).

Wali is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of arson and illegal possession of cannabis.