The First Grade Magistrate’s Court in Rumphi has sentenced a primary school teacher, Christopher Mkandawire (58), to 10 years in prison for possessing three pieces of raw ivory.

State prosecutor John Mabethi told the court that Mkandawire, along with Abel Phiri and his son Chisomo Mkandawire, was arrested at Bolero Trading Centre on September 24, 2025, while trying to sell the ivory.

Mkandawire pleaded guilty and asked for leniency, citing loss of his retirement package. Phiri also pleaded for mercy, saying he supports his family alone.

Magistrate Cuthbert Phiri noted that illegal wildlife trade is common in Bolero but gave a lighter sentence to Mkandawire due to his age. Phiri received 10 years with hard labour, while Chisomo was acquitted.

Mkandawire comes from Kapotambunge Village,

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