2 Malawians in Mauritius jail over illicit drug trafficking

Two Malawians are said to be in a jail in Mauritius over illicit drug trafficking.

Principal Secretary for ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ben Botolo has confirmed that his office has received reports over the matter.

“We have referred the matter to the Immigration department to confirm the identity of the two individuals and we are just waiting for their feedback,” said Botolo.

Botolo said the government will make a decision on the two suspects once the identity of the suspects has been proved to be Malawians.

The government  is on record to have warned all Malawians living in the country and abroad not to be used to carry or deliver luggage or parcels to unknown contacts abroad, so as to avoid becoming unwitting drug mules.

Government expressed concern that an increasing number of Malawian nationals, mostly young women, are being arrested and detained abroad in connection to drug trafficking offences.

According to the statement, the Malawian women are either duped or coerced by foreigners (mostly males) to engage in the illicit drug trade with promises of monetary rewards, better life and sometimes even marriage.

Sometimes, according to government,  unsuspecting women are asked by dealers posing as businessmen trading cosmetics and other items to carry luggage (sealed or otherwise) concealing drugs when passing through airport security check points, ending up being arrested.

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