Police Investigate Auditor’s Suicide Following Defilement Allegations

​MAMBWE — A 46-year-old internal auditor with the Chadiza Town Council has allegedly committed suicide at his private plot in Mambwe District, Eastern Province, amid unverified allegations of child defilement.

​The deceased, identified as David Phiri, was on leave at the time of the incident, which police have confirmed occurred in the early hours of July 26, 2026.

​According to Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba, Mr Phiri had traveled to Mambwe to oversee construction work on his property, temporarily lodging at the Council Guest House.

​Investigators established that on the evening of July 25, Mr Phiri was spotted drinking and playing pool with acquaintances at a local establishment in the Mambwe Central Business District before heading out alone. At approximately 02:00 hours, residents in Jumbe Village reported hearing distress screams emanating from his plot, though no immediate checks were made.

​By 07:00 hours, local citizens discovered his lifeless body and notified law enforcement.

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​A preliminary scene assessment conducted by responding officers revealed no outward signs of physical trauma. However, authorities detected a pungent chemical odor, recovering a whisky bottle and particles suspected to be agricultural pesticide, specifically maize preservative tablets, near the remains.

​While investigators have officially ruled out foul play, Mr Mweemba noted that authorities are looking into surrounding circumstances, including unconfirmed reports linking the tragedy to an alleged defilement incident involving a 15-year-old housemaid in Chadiza prior to his journey.

​Police emphasized that the misconduct allegations remain under active investigation. The remains have been transferred to the Mambwe District Hospital mortuary pending formal post-mortem examinations and funeral arrangements.