Police in Balaka District have arrested a 29-year-old man following allegations that he sexually abused a 14-year-old girl.

The suspect, identified as Sulaimana Rashid, is accused of luring the minor with false promises of charms that would improve her academic performance.

According to Balaka Police Public Relations Officer Gladson M’bumpha, the incident occurred on Monday at Chendausiku in the district, where Rashid allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of the girl at his residence.

M’bumpha said a woman became suspicious after seeing the teenager leaving the suspect’s house and immediately informed the girl’s mother.

The mother questioned her daughter, who then disclosed what had allegedly happened.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police, leading to Rashid’s arrest.

The suspect hails from Kaipakunja Village under Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District.