Police have confirmed that the death of 28-year-old medical doctor Dr. Atughanile Chomo was a case of murder.
Southern Region Police spokesperson Beatrice Mikuwa confirmed the development, saying police had classified the case as murder and would release more details as investigations continue.
Dr. Chomo, who recently joined Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, was found dead at her home in Mount Pleasant.
Police have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding her death or whether anyone has been arrested.
The confirmation of her murder has sparked concern among medical practitioners, who say the killing has heightened fears over the safety of healthcare workers.
Medical Doctors Union of Malawi publicity secretary Dr. Steve Mlangiza said the incident had raised serious concerns about the security of medical doctors across the country.
“Malawi is becoming unsafe for medical practitioners. We are failing to protect the very people who dedicate their lives to caring for others,” Mlangiza said.
He called on the Ministry of Health to prioritise the welfare and security of medical doctors, saying some still rely on public transport while travelling to and from work at night.
He added that low salaries make it difficult for some doctors to afford accommodation in secure neighbourhoods or hire private security.
Dr. Chomo was born on June 26, 1998, and hailed from Chitipa District. She had recently joined Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital as a medical doctor.
Investigations into the murder continue, and police say more information will be released as the inquiry progresses.
