Dzaleka in shock : two Burundian and Congolese refugees found murdered

SOS Médias Burundi

Dzaleka, Malawi, April 1, 2026 — Two refugee traders, one Burundian and one Congolese, were found dead Tuesday morning near the Dzaleka camp, in circumstances that have sparked concern and anger among residents.

According to witnesses, the victims, both in their thirties, had left the camp last Sunday to buy goods in the town center. They never returned. The following day, their families alerted the authorities after noticing their disappearance.

Their bodies showed signs of injury, suggesting they were attacked before being murdered. A significant sum of money was stolen from them.

“We first became worried when they hadn’t been heard from since Sunday. The next day, we alerted the authorities, and then they were found dead Tuesday morning, apparently strangled. We demand an investigation to find out who committed this double murder,” said a family member of the Burundian victim.

This double murder highlights the climate of insecurity in the Dowa district, where the Dzaleka camp hosts more than 50,000 refugees, including over 11,000 Burundians. Local sources indicate that crime is frequent in the region and that refugees are advised against traveling long distances at night.

Malawi police have stated that they have opened an investigation to determine the motive and identify those responsible. However, some refugees point to a lack of effective protection from the security forces, who are accused of failing to prevent this type of attack.

In response to this situation, camp authorities and humanitarian organizations are advising refugees to limit their nighttime movements, travel in groups whenever possible, report any suspicious activity, and keep their valuables in secure locations. These measures aim to reduce risks and protect vulnerable populations amidst a backdrop of recurring crime.