Malawi Police in Blantyre have arrested renowned business tycoon of Asian origin Farouk Gani , chairman of Victoria Hotel on allegations that he demanded property by threats and attempting extortion, Nyasa Times understands.
Police sources confirmed the development and further revealed that the businessman is currently in police custody.
A visit to the Blantyre police by Nyasa Times crew found a phalanx of Asian Malawians who assembled at the station trying to get their friend out on bail.
Southern region police publicist Nicholas Gondwa has also confirmed the development and told Nyasa Times that Gan was arrested by Fiscal police and is being held up at the Blantyre police.
“Yes, I can confirm that we have a suspect by the name of Farouk Gani owner of Victoria hotel, currently investigations are still underway so let me come back to you for further details,” said Gondwa in a telephone interview.
The successful business man is credited for changing the face of Blantyre with the up-market hotel and is reported to have had close links with former president late Bingu wa Mutharika.