The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested former Chief of the Malawi Defence Force, General Paul Valentino Phiri (Retired), on five counts relating to abuse of office and dealing in terrorist property.
In a statement issued on Thursday, ACB Senior Public Relations Officer Jacqueline Ngongonda says the charges stem from allegations concerning General Phiri’s role in facilitating illegal arms trafficking in June and July 2025.
The Bureau says General Phiri is currently being cautioned and is expected to appear before court after the cautioning process.
“The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested former Chief of the Malawi Defence Force, General Paul Valentino Phiri (Retired), on five counts relating to abuse of office and dealing in terrorist property. The charges arise from allegations concerning his role in facilitating illegal arms trafficking in June and July 2025,” reads part of the statement.
The ACB has not provided further details on the specific allegations or the nature of the alleged arms trafficking at this stage, saying additional information will be provided as appropriate.
General Phiri served as Chief of the Malawi Defence Force from July 2023 to 2025.
The arrest comes as the ACB continues investigations into alleged corruption, abuse of office and other offences involving public officials and other individuals.