By Brenda Kayo:
The Lilongwe Principal Resident Magistrate Court Wednesday granted bail to Reverend Kondwani Chimbilima Gondwe of the Livingstonia Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) after the clergyman had spent two nights in custody.
He was arrested on suspicion that he had committed cybercrime-related offences.
Principal Resident Magistrate Roderick Michongwe said the court granted bail to Gondwe because the State failed to provide evidence that the suspect would interfere with investigations if released.
On Tuesday, the State asked the court not to grant bail to Gondwe, arguing that he would interfere with investigations.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Michongwe reminded the State that an arrest should be made when there is conclusive evidence.
Lawyer representing Gondwe Khwima Mchizi said the court was right to remind the State that arresting people without full evidence is flouting the law.
“It was a timely reminder to the authorities and this is what we have been advocating. If you are to arrest someone you are supposed to investigate and come up with a reasonable conclusion,” Mchizi said.
Gondwe was ordered to serve his bail by reporting to the nearest police station in Mzuzu. He was also ordered to pay K200,000 for his surety and surrender his national identity card.
General Secretary for the Livingstonia Synod Reverend William Tembo said the synod was happy that the court had released Gondwe on bail.
“However, we are shocked by his arrest; we never thought it would come to this,” Tembo said.
Gondwe was arrested on Monday on suspicion that he committed cyber crimes which the police said were capable of inciting violence and instilling fear in the public.
His arrest came just days after the law enforcers had netted Rumphi East Member of Parliament Kamlepo Kalua and rights activist Bon Kalindo over similar allegations.
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