British Auditor Rescued in Malawi After Shootout Leaves Four Kidnappers Dead

A 47-year-old British auditor abducted in southern Malawi has been rescued by police following a shootout that left four alleged kidnappers dead and a senior officer wounded.

Nusrat Osman was taken from outside her home in Blantyre at approximately 12:30 p.m. on September 11. Police had offered a reward of 30 million Malawi kwacha (around £12,950) for details leading to her location and the arrest of the perpetrators.

Exchange of Fire During Operation

Malawian law enforcement announced the successful operation late Thursday, stating that officers exchanged gunfire with the suspects, who were equipped with an AK-47 rifle and a Girsan Regard MC pistol. All four suspects were shot during the confrontation and later died from their injuries in hospital.

Deputy Inspector General Mlowoka Noel Kayira was also shot during the rescue operation. Authorities confirmed he is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital and is in stable condition.

Family Reaction and Background

Osman's brother, Shobi Jiwa, stated that she was safe and unhurt following the ordeal. Jiwa expressed immense gratitude toward the police officers involved, praising Kayira specifically for placing his life on the line during the mission.

Prior to her rescue, Osman's family said they had not been contacted by the kidnappers for ransom and were unaware of any possible motive. Osman, a mother of two originally from Leicester, had lived in Malawi with her family for several years while working for a local audit firm.

Kidnappings remain rare in Malawi, where foreign nationals are seldom targeted. Police have not disclosed whether information tied to the monetary reward led directly to the rescue, adding that investigations into the incident remain ongoing.