A herd of 17 cattle, stolen from Mugwanta Village in Lundazi District between November 10 and 11, has been successfully recovered and returned to its owner following a coordinated effort between Zambian and Malawian authorities.
The animals were allegedly stolen by two Malawian nationals and one Zambian accomplice, who remains at large.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba, the two Malawian suspects were arrested and are currently detained at Lundazi Police Station awaiting court appearance.
Mr. Mweemba says a joint team of officers travelled to Jenda Police Station in Malawi on November 13 to secure the release of the livestock.
The operation culminated at the homestead of the rightful owner, 74-year-old Layford Nyirenda, where all cattle were accounted for.
Officers physically verified the recovery, counting all 17 animals grazing near the village.
While the primary suspects are in custody, authorities have launched a manhunt for a relative of the owner, identified only as Male Jere, who is suspected of involvement and is currently on the run in Malawi.
Police in Malawi have been engaged to assist in his arrest.
By Samuel Khwawe
