Police in Phalombe have arrested a 25-year-old man, Aubrey Galimoto, for allegedly attempting to sell his nine-year-old cousin.
According to Phalombe Police Publicist Jimmy Kapanja, the suspect had been staying with the child at his house after the victim’s mother failed to provide care for him and his siblings.
Police say the matter came to light after a concerned businessperson at Chiringa Trading Center reported that Galimoto had offered to sell the child.
Following the tip, officers swiftly moved in and arrested the suspect.
Kapanja confirmed that the suspect will appear in court to answer charges of conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
Authorities have since assured the public that the child is safe and being protected as investigations continue.