By Chisomo Masaiti Chiusiwa

Ntchisi, April 19, Mana: Ntchisi Police Station has arrested Willard Kapichira, 28, and Lloyd Banda, 30, for allegedly being found with pieces of elephant ivory.

According to Ntchisi Police Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Salome Zgambo, the suspects were arrested on April 18, 2025 at Kayoyo Rest House at Ntchisi Trading Centre following a tip-off.

She said: “Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers rushed to the scene and upon searching the suspects' belongings discovered nine pieces of elephant ivory weighing approximately 11.40 kilogrammes.”

She added that Wildlife and Parks personnel confirmed the authenticity of the ivory and the suspects admitted to have obtained it from Nkhotakota Game Reserve.

The suspects are currently in police custody and will appear in court to face charges related to possession of listed species.

Kapichira, hails from Suwat Village while Banda, hails from Chambo Village both under Senior Chief Nthondo in Ntchisi.