Former Malawi Defence Force commander General Paul Valentino Phiri was arrested on Thursday by the country's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) over allegations that he facilitated illegal arms trafficking linked to the war in Sudan.
The ACB announced the arrest in a statement issued in Malawi's capital, Lilongwe, saying the allegations relate to activities that allegedly took place in June and July 2025.
“The charges arise from allegations concerning his role in facilitating illegal arms trafficking in June and July 2025,” the anti-corruption agency said.
Phiri, 54, is facing five counts relating to alleged abuse of office and dealings involving what the ACB described as “terrorist property.”
The allegations also include dealing in property linked to terrorism, according to the agency.
The arrest marks a significant development involving a former senior military officer in Malawi, particularly because the allegations concern arms trafficking connected to the conflict in Sudan.
Allegations Linked to Sudan Conflict
The ACB did not provide extensive details about the alleged transactions or identify the specific weapons, individuals or organizations allegedly involved.
However, the agency said the charges stem from allegations concerning Phiri's role in facilitating illegal arms trafficking during June and July 2025.
The reference to the Sudan war places the case against the backdrop of the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan, where rival military forces have been engaged in fighting and where the movement of weapons and other military equipment has been a major international concern.
The charges remain allegations, and any determination of Phiri's criminal responsibility would depend on the outcome of the legal process.
Former Military Commander
Phiri served as commander of the Malawi Defence Force from July 2023 until October 2025.
His tenure ended in the same month that former President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera lost Malawi's general election to incumbent President Arthur Peter Mutharika.
As commander of the country's armed forces, Phiri held one of Malawi's most senior military positions before retiring.
His arrest therefore represents a major development for Malawi's anti-corruption authorities, particularly as the allegations involve the abuse of public office and alleged dealings in property connected to terrorism.
The ACB's investigation will now be expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged activities and determine the evidence supporting the charges.
The case also highlights the role of national law-enforcement agencies in investigating alleged illicit arms transfers and financial or property transactions associated with armed conflicts outside their countries.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau has not indicated what further legal action will be taken against Phiri following his arrest or whether additional individuals are being investigated in connection with the allegations.
As the case proceeds, further details are expected to emerge through the Malawian legal and investigative processes.
