Police in Malawi are investigating how four police dogs went missing from a presidential palace in the capital, Lilongwe, during the political transition in September.
Godfrey Arthur Jalale, who served as State House deputy chief of staff under former President Lazarus Chakwera, has been arrested in connection with the theft of the four German Shepherds. He denies the charge.
Chakwera vacated the palace after losing the elections to President Peter Mutharika, who made a stunning comeback.
Late on Wednesday, police denied reports that Chakwera had been arrested but confirmed securing a search warrant for his residence after information suggested the stolen dogs were being kept there.
Chakwera, who came second with 33% of the vote in the September vote, is facing numerous allegations of public resources mismanagement, especially during the handover.
