Malawi: Fake Funeral Used to Smuggle Charcoal

In Malawi, at least nine people are wanted after being caught trafficking illegal charcoal in a hearse, staging a fake funeral procession. Police and forestry officials reported that illegal charcoal trafficking is common, leading to deforestation.

Forestry officials stopped the "funeral" in Tsikuawa, finding an empty coffin and about 30 bags of charcoal worth 3 million kwacha (approximately 1800 euros). The suspects face a five-year prison sentence. They escaped, leaving the hearse behind. They face charges of illegal possession and transportation of forest products.

Malawi residents use charcoal for cooking due to power outages.

Source: APE-MPE