Police in Lilongwe have arrested three men believed to be the masterminds behind a recent wave of violent attacks and killings that have terrorized residents of Area 25.

National Police Spokesperson Peter Kalaya confirmed the arrests on Monday, identifying the suspects as 28-year-old Dyson Sinedi, 21-year-old Adam Tsoka, and 26-year-old Felix Magaleta.

According to Kalaya, Sinedi was apprehended in Area 43 following weeks of investigations, while Tsoka and Magaleta were picked up in Mgona, a township in the capital.

“These arrests follow intense investigations into the disturbing incidents that have caused fear and unrest among residents of Area 25,” Kalaya said. “We have strong evidence that they are responsible and they have since confessed to have taken part in the murder cases.”

Kalaya further revealed that the suspects admitted to using a motorcycle to move around at night and a metal bar to assault their victims before robbing them of their belongings.

The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be formally charged as investigations continue.

The string of violent incidents in Area 25 had sparked public outrage, with residents demanding urgent intervention to restore peace and order in the community.

Police records indicate that 13 cases of attacks have occurred in the area since May, five of which have resulted in the death of victims.

Meanwhile, security expert Sherif Kaisi, while commending law enforcement for the arrests, has urged the police to intensify patrols to ensure lasting security.

“The attacks brought panic among citizens, we commend the police for the job well done, however they should not relax in carrying out patrols to ensure total security in the area,” Kaisi said.

According to police, Sinedi hails from Kaumbata Village, Traditional Authority (TA) Kapeni in Blantyre; Tsoka is from Tawi Village, TA Kaphuka in Dedza; and Magaleta comes from Likwawa Village, TA Sitola in Machinga.