Early this morning, around 2:27 am, gunshots were reported in Dzaleka as Malawi Defence Force personnel conducted an operation to search for and arrest Ethiopian nationals suspected of involvement in human trafficking and smuggling networks. The main focus of the operation was Karonga Zone.
Reports indicate that two alleged illegal holding facilities were raided, and individuals found at those locations were taken away. Military personnel later moved toward Kawale 2; however, a second targeted facility was reportedly not raided after the property owner, Isaac, and his team allegedly resisted entry. Isaac had reportedly been deported to Ethiopia early last year but later returned to Dzaleka and continued suspected illegal activities.
Reported Arrests
Several individuals were reportedly arrested, including:
- An Ethiopian asylum seeker, Shifara, his wife Umugabirwa Viviane, their three children, and three workers
- Mushengezi, a Burundian teacher
- Nshimiye, a Burundian Zone Leader of Karonga, his wife, and two children (one under 2 years old)
- Three Rwandan men reportedly found sleeping outside a bereaved family’s home
Testimony from a Resident
One resident who asked to remain anonymous shared his experience following the operation:“Yesterday at 3 AM, a tear gas projectile landed right at my doorstep. I could not breathe. I tried to escape and knocked on neighbours’ doors, but no one could open because they were afraid. I fell to the ground and inhaled the gas.
By the grace of God, I survived. I jumped over the fence because I had left the keys inside while running, as the gas had filled my room. I truly thought it was my time to die.
I am not seeking revenge. I simply want the authorities to recognise that innocent people are present and are being affected.”
The resident stated that he hopes authorities will take into account the impact on innocent families during such operations.
Additional Reports
- Tear gas was reportedly used during parts of the operation
- Personal belongings, including laptops and mobile phones, were reportedly confiscated
