Three Accused of Murder Released Due to Insufficient Evidence in Malawi

Three men accused of murdering Joseph Edward Banda were released in Ntchisi due to insufficient evidence. The body of Banda was found in June 2023 with stab wounds. Though eyewitnesses placed the accused at the scene, lack of direct evidence led to their discharge after nearly two years in prison.

In the Ntchisi district of Malawi, three men, Josephy Gladwell Master, Yohane Petro, and Paul Francisco, were released from charges of murder due to insufficient evidence. The murder involved the death of 63-year-old Joseph Edward Banda, whose body was discovered in June 2023, following a drinking spree in Kadzimete village.

Banda’s body was found in a maize field, exhibiting multiple stab wounds. Following this, the authorities initiated an investigation, which resulted in the arrest of the three men, who consistently denied any involvement in the crime. Although they were connected to the scene through witness statements, no direct evidence was presented against them.

The accused received legal representation from Senior Legal Aid Advocates Jacqueline Nthaniko and Chanju Kondowe, supported by the Legal Aid Bureau. A witness confirmed seeing Banda, reportedly intoxicated, on the night of June 2, 2023, while also having seen the suspects heading in the same direction as him.

Upon further examination of the evidence, the State concluded that the evidence was inadequate for a conviction. Consequently, the decision was made to drop the case, resulting in the release of the accused after nearly two years of incarceration at Ntchisi Prison.

In conclusion, the release of Josephy Gladwell Master, Yohane Petro, and Paul Francisco signifies a judicial decision based on insufficient evidence concerning the murder of Joseph Edward Banda. Despite witness testimonies placing them at the scene, the lack of direct evidence ultimately led to the discontinuation of the case. Their release after almost two years in custody emphasizes the importance of evidence-based prosecution within the legal system.

Original Source: malawi24.com