Mulanje Police Spokesperson Sub-Inspector Gresham Ngwira says the three allegedly assaulted Chiponde when they found him stealing the company’s blue gum trees late last month.

He died a week later while receiving treatment at Mulanje District Hospital.

Elsewhere, Police in Chikwawa have arrested their fellow officer suspected to have aided 57-year-old defilement suspect escape custody.

National Police Spokesperson James Kadadzera confirmed that the arrest was made last week but refused to disclose the suspect's identity.

Meanwhile Gender Activist, Emma Kaliya fears that if not checked such conduct will fuel defilement cases in the country.