Malawi Police Probe Theft of Four Dogs from Presidential Palace

Sun Nov 30 2025 01:18:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An investigation has been launched into the theft of four German Shepherds from Malawi's presidential palace amid political transition confusion.

Malawi police are investigating the disappearance of four police dogs valued at $2,300 from the presidential palace in Lilongwe. The former deputy chief of staff has been arrested in connection with the case. As political tensions rise following the recent election that saw President Peter Mutharika return to power, local media reports state that the dogs were stolen during this turbulent period. The investigation has been intensified in light of these allegations, with police securing a search warrant at the former president's residence.

Police in Malawi are investigating how four police dogs went missing from a presidential palace in the capital, Lilongwe, during the political transition in September.

Godfrey Arthur Jalale, who served as State House deputy chief of staff under former President Lazarus Chakwera, has been arrested in connection with the theft of the four German Shepherds. He denies the charge.

Chakwera vacated the palace after losing the elections to President Peter Mutharika, who made a stunning comeback. Late on Wednesday, police denied reports that Chakwera had been arrested but confirmed securing a search warrant for his residence after information suggested the stolen dogs were being kept there.

Chakwera, who came second with 33% of the vote in the September vote, is facing numerous allegations of public resource mismanagement, especially during the handover. His Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has accused Mutharika's administration of 'harassing and intimidating' the former leader. Chakwera has not commented.

Local media have reported thefts of state property from two presidential residences. The four dogs were taken out between September 19 and October 4, according to state prosecutors, who have launched a robust investigation following property looting reports.

MCP MPs boycotted parliamentary sessions and camped out at Chakwera's residence amid fears of his potential arrest.

Chakwera, a former pastor, had kept a low profile since conceding defeat. He recently announced a Commonwealth appointment to aid in mediating in Tanzania's post-election unrest.

Meanwhile, Mutharika, who campaigned on promises of a 'return to proven leadership', has returned to a nation grappling with crises such as fuel shortages. At age 85, his health remains a topic of speculation as he navigates the challenges of leadership.