A Burundian refugee is in police custody after allegedly leaving Dzaleka Refugee Camp and operating a grocery business in Zomba without authorisation.
The Department of Immigration arrested 44-year-old Neza Eric at GVH Chikanda in Zomba City on June 16 following a tip-off from members of the public.
Immigration officer Amos Makina said Eric entered Malawi through the Karonga border in 2019 as an asylum seeker and had been residing at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa District.
Makina said investigations revealed that Eric had left the camp and was running a grocery business in Zomba, contrary to requirements under Malawi’s refugee laws.
“Yes, I can confirm that we have arrested a Burundian national,” said Makina.
Eric has since been charged with disobedience of statutory duty under Section 123 of the Penal Code.
According to the Immigration Department, asylum seekers and refugees are required by law to reside at Dzaleka Refugee Camp unless granted special permission by authorities.
If convicted, Eric could face deportation to Burundi or be returned to Dzaleka Refugee Camp.
The arrest comes as immigration authorities continue cracking down on refugees and asylum seekers found living or conducting business outside designated areas without the necessary permits.
