Police net man over fake press statements

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has arrested Emmanuel Soko aged 39 for allegedly forging and circulating a fake press release bearing the credentials of the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC).

According to a press release signed by MPS Public Relations Officer Senior Superintendent Gladys Chiwala Soko, who is a businessman, is suspected of committing several offences, including spamming, spreading false information likely to cause public fear and sedition.

Police say the offences are contrary to Section 91 of the Electronic Transactions and Cyber Security Act of 2016, Section 60 and Section 50 of the Penal Code.

However, police have warned the public against creating, circulating or publishing fake official communications, saying such conduct attracts criminal liability.

Meanwhile,Soko comes from Maliwa Village, Traditional Authority Munjala in Kasungu district and is expected to appear in court soon to answer the charge.