By Yamikani Yapuwa

Thyolo, March 29, Mana: Police in Thyolo have arrested 47-year-old Paulo Fisher in connection with the murder of Zinthenga Banda, whose decomposed body was discovered on January 27, 2025, at Conforzi Estate behind the Engine filling station in the district.

Banda had reportedly gone to the area to eat sugarcane and search for coco plants.

According to Thyolo Police Spokesperson. Rabecca Kashoti, investigations revealed that on January 20, Banda and two friends had been sent by a local businessperson to pick sugarcane from a garden within Conforzi Estate.

“Upon arrival, they encountered two men guarding the field, who initially suspected them of attempting to steal.

“They were first denied access to the sugarcane, but after explaining that they had been sent by the owner, they were allowed to proceed,” said Kashoti.

Kashoti said, after completing their work, Banda’s two friends left, while he remained behind to eat sugarcane, mentioning that he would later search for coco plants.

“Days later, on January 23, Banda’s daughter was concerned when her father failed to return home, and his phone went unanswered. She reported the matter to Thyolo Police Station, prompting an investigation.

“On January 27, officers discovered Banda’s body in a maize field within the estate. The remains were in a decomposed state, with multiple deep cuts,” Kashoti confirmed.

She added that the post-mortem conducted at Thyolo District Hospital established that Banda had died from severe wounds inflicted by a sharp object.”

“Following intensive investigations, police tracked down and arrested Fisher, who had been on the run.

“We have managed to apprehend the suspect after he had been hiding for some time. He will appear in court soon to answer a murder charge,” Kashoti said.

Fisher comes from Chibwana Village, Traditional Authority Nchiramwera, in Thyolo District.