Former State House Deputy Chief of Staff Jalale Arrested, to Spend Night in Police Custody

Former State House Deputy Chief of Staff Godfrey Arthur Jalale was arrested on Tuesday morning and is expected to spend the night in police custody as investigations continue.

According to police sources, Jalale is suspected of involvement in the disappearance of German Shepherd dogs—valued at approximately K4 million—from State House. The alleged theft reportedly occurred as it became evident that then-president Lazarus Chakwera was heading toward electoral defeat.

Following former President Chakwera’s televised concession and congratulatory message to President-elect Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, reports began to surface alleging acts of vandalism within State House premises and staff residences.

These reports included claims of property damage as well as the disappearance of various items, among them a plasma television and police-trained dogs.

The incidents prompted the incoming administration to delay its move into State House to allow for what officials describe as comprehensive maintenance and repairs, a process expected to take several months.

Law enforcement officials indicate that Jalale’s arrest may be the first among several, as preliminary findings suggest that the scale of the alleged vandalism and theft may have involved more than one individual. Police say investigations remain ongoing.

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