A joint security operation in Kaning’ina Forest has led to the arrest of nine people suspected of engaging in illegal logging, charcoal burning, and timber production in the protected forest reserve, authorities have confirmed.
Malawi Police Service spokesperson for Mzuzu, Sergeant Edson Chipeni, said the suspects were arrested on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, during a special operation conducted in collaboration with forestry officials and other security agencies.
The operation targeted individuals suspected of cutting down trees, producing charcoal, and sawing timber in the forest reserve without legal authorization documents.
Chipeni identified the suspects as John Mweso, 27, Davison Mpira, 27, Bobulex Msani, 42, Tiwonge Mphande, 46, Mavuto Mkandawire, 44, Gilbert Banda, 39, Stonard Nyirenda, 44, Glory Nkhoma, 30, and Ester Mzenga, 21.
According to Chipeni, the arrests followed a special investigation organised by forestry officers aimed at tracking down people allegedly involved in illegal activities within the forest reserve.
He said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts by authorities to protect forest resources and curb environmental degradation in protected areas.
During the exercise, officers reportedly seized several items believed to have been used in the activities, including tree-cutting equipment, two bags of charcoal, and timber.
Police also confiscated two axes, a hoe, and four pangas which investigators suspect were being used during the illegal operations in the forest.
The suspects are expected to appear before the court to answer charges related to unlawful possession of forest produce and illegal cutting of trees in a protected area.
Department of Forestry and other enforcement agencies have in recent years intensified operations against illegal logging and charcoal production as concerns over deforestation continue to grow in different parts of the country.
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