Actor Tumpe Mtaya, popularly known as Phwedo, has been granted bail by the Lilongwe Chief Resident Magistrate Court this afternoon. Presiding Magistrate Benjamin Chulu ruled in favor of the defense, stating that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence that Mtaya would interfere with ongoing investigations.
Mtaya faces two charges: defilement and child abduction. The allegations stem from an incident on February 18, 2025, where Mtaya is accused of engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. The case has attracted significant public attention, leading to its transfer to the Chief Resident Magistrate Court in Lilongwe.
The defense team, led by lawyers Stanley Chirwa and Khwima Mchizi, argued that their client had not been formally served with the charge sheet and that the prosecution had not provided necessary disclosures. The State requested five additional days to complete their investigations, but the court found no compelling reason to deny bail.
Phwedo, known for his role in the film “School Days,” remains a prominent figure in Malawi’s entertainment industry. He is also part of the cast in the upcoming movie “Welcome to Maula Prison,” set to premiere next month.
