Man arrested in Walewale for machete attack over missing phone

Police in Walewale, in the North East Region, have arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly attacking another person with a machete over a suspected case of phone theft.

The suspect, identified as Rafai Tahiru, was arrested at his hideout in Tampulungu, a suburb of Walewale, on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

Two other accomplices are currently on the run.

According to a police statement, the incident occurred on Saturday, October 4, after the trio accused the victim of stealing a mobile phone belonging to Tahiru.

The suspects reportedly tied the victim’s hands and legs with ropes, placed him in a tricycle, and severely beat him with canes.

They also used a machete to inflict wounds on the victim’s forehead and body.

Eyewitnesses who saw the brutal attack quickly intervened and rushed the injured victim to the Walewale Government Hospital, where he is receiving medical care.

Police say a search of Tahiru’s room after his arrest led to the discovery of a bloodstained machete, believed to be the weapon used in the assault.

Rafai Tahiru is currently in police custody and will be arraigned in court while efforts continue to locate and arrest the remaining suspects.

The incident has sparked concern in the community, with many calling for more patrols and community education on nonviolent conflict resolution.

Below is the full statement