By Dalitso Kampira

Thyolo, April 2, Mana: Police in Thyolo have arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly defiling a 14-year-old girl on March 31, 2025.

Thyolo Police Station Publicist, Rabecca Kashoti, confirmed the development and identified the suspect as Philip Lipulo.

"The girl was returning home from smallholder market in the company of her friends when she encountered three men, including the suspect. Lipulo allegedly dragged the girl into a nearby bush," Kashoti said.

She said after hearing her cry for help, the victim’s friends attempted to intervene but the suspect threatened to kill them.

"He then took the girl to a nearby house, tore her clothes, and sexually assaulted her before releasing her," said Kashoti.

The incident was reported to Thyolo Police Station where the victim was referred to Thyolo District Hospital for examination and treatment.

Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers later raided the suspect’s residence leading to his arrest.

Lipulo, who hails from Nansanya Village, Traditional Authority Nchiramwera in Thyolo, is currently in police custody and will appear in court soon to answer charges of defilement.