Police Arrest Teacher for Abusing Pupil
Police in Namwera, Mangochi, have arrested 27-year-old William Songolo, a teacher at Luchichi Primary School, for sexually abusing a six-year-old Standard Two learner during part-time lessons. The shocking incident has sparked outrage among the community and raised concerns over child safety in schools.
The abuse occurred on January 29, 2025, in Chimwala Village, under Traditional Authority Jalasi. Reports indicate that the suspect, who worked closely with the victim’s father, had been giving the child extra lessons at home. The victim’s family trusted him, making the crime even more disturbing.
According to police, the teacher used this position of trust to lure the child into a nearby bush under the pretense of buying cassava. There, he forced her to undress and subjected her to sexual abuse before allowing her to return home. The horrific ordeal left the young girl in pain and distress.
Parents Discover the Crime
The victim’s father, also a teacher, was instructing Standard Eight pupils when he received a distressing phone call from his wife. She urged him to return home immediately due to an urgent issue concerning their daughter. Upon arrival, he was met with a heartbreaking sight.
The father noticed a whitish substance, suspected to be semen, on the child’s genital area. Concerned, he questioned his daughter, who revealed the shocking truth about her teacher’s actions. The revelation led to an immediate response from the parents.
Later that evening, the child complained of severe genital pain, further raising suspicions. Her mother quickly took action, leading to the case being reported to Namwera Police Post. Authorities wasted no time in handling the case.
Medical Examination Confirms Abuse
Upon reporting the case, police issued a referral letter for the victim to undergo a medical examination at Mangochi District Hospital. The examination confirmed that penetration had occurred, solidifying the case against the suspect. This evidence played a crucial role in ensuring the teacher’s immediate arrest.
Following the medical findings, law enforcement officers swiftly apprehended William Songolo. The suspect is now facing serious charges related to child abuse and sexual assault. His arrest has sent shockwaves through the teaching community and the general public.
Legal Action and Charges
Authorities have charged Songolo with having sexual intercourse with a minor, which is a serious offense under Section 138 of the Penal Code. This charge carries a heavy penalty, and the suspect is expected to appear in court once all paperwork is completed. The legal process will determine his fate.
Cases of child abuse and exploitation have been on the rise, and the government has vowed to take stricter measures to protect minors from such horrific acts. The arrest of Songolo serves as a strong message that perpetrators will face the full force of the law.
Community Reactions and Calls for Justice
The local community has reacted with shock and anger over the incident. Many parents have expressed concerns about their children’s safety in the hands of educators. Activists and child rights organizations have also called for harsher punishments for individuals found guilty of such crimes.
Education authorities have condemned the act and assured the public that measures will be put in place to ensure children remain safe in schools. The incident has sparked national discussions on how to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The suspect, William Songolo, hails from Kadaona Village, under Traditional Authority Mzikubola, in Mzimba District. His arrest marks another critical step in the fight against child abuse in Malawi.
The case highlights the need for vigilance among parents, school officials, and authorities in protecting children from predators. The public awaits the court proceedings, hoping for justice for the young victim.
