Bicycle operator stabbed, robbed in Mangochi

Police in Mangochi district are hunting for unknown criminals who stabbed a bicycle operator before stealing his bicycle.

Mangochi Police deputy spokesperson Amina Daudi has identified the victim as Winesi Nikisoni, 22, from Matchapa village, Traditional Authority Nkoola in Machinga.

According to Daudi, on Thursday Nikisoni who operates from Mangochi boma was hired by a passenger to go to Mkumbi village which is 15kms away from the town and upon arrival at Mkumbi Forest he was ordered to stop.

Suddenly, three other men came out of the forest and together with the passenger attacked the operator. They stabbed him on the stomach and left arm with a sharp object and ran away with the bicycle.

“When he shouted for help people around the area rushed to the scene and they found him lying unconsciously with his intestines out and he was taken to Mangochi District Hospital where he has been admitted but his condition is still serious,” said Daudi.

Meanwhile investigations are underway to arrest the culprits and if found they are going to answer the charge of robbery with violence which is contrary to section 301 of penal code. The Police have since warned all bicycle operators that as we are going towards festive season they should be careful and observant.

The police have also asked the operators to avoid working during odd hours to long distances in order to prevent similar incidents.