Fear Grips Malalume as Officer Accused of Murder Returns to Duty
BULILIMA – Tension is rising in Malalume Village after Constable Blessed Moyo, a police officer previously arrested in connection with a suspected murder, was quietly reinstated to duty—sparking outrage and fear among residents.
Moyo was arrested in May 2025 when human remains, including a skull, bones, a bloodied knife, and handcuffs, were discovered in a pit latrine behind the local clinic, which also houses the police base.
The victim had reportedly been detained by Moyo before vanishing.
Moyo was denied bail during his initial court appearance but has since returned to work under circumstances that remain unclear.
Residents say they were never informed of the outcome of the case and are demanding answers from authorities.
“How can a man accused of such a crime come back to work as if nothing happened?
“We deserve to know why he is back on duty,” one resident said.
Another villager alleged corruption, saying ordinary citizens would not have received similar treatment.
“If it was one of us, we would still be in jail today, maybe even without a trial. But because he is a police officer, they protect him. We are not fools—something is being hidden,” they said.
Witnesses said the victim had been accused of stealing food and clothing before being taken into custody.
While detained, he was allegedly beaten with a mopane switch, sjambok, cooking stick, and plastic pick handle.
His health reportedly deteriorated, and he was never seen again.
Months later, skeletal remains were discovered buried in a toilet behind the police base.
The discovery reignited public outrage and raised serious questions about police accountability in the area.
Villagers say Moyo’s return has left them feeling unsafe and betrayed.
“His coming back has broken us completely. We used to believe the police were there to protect us, but now we are asking ourselves: who will protect us from the police?” another resident said.
Efforts to obtain comment from national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi were unsuccessful.
-CITE
