A defilement convict who was pending sentencing has escaped from police custody in Phalombe a situation some child rights activist have described as a calculated move.

The convict, James Sambuka was convicted on February 13, 2020 and was expected to be sentenced on February 18.

According to records at the Phalombe Registry Office, the suspect escaped during a cleaning exercise around Phalombe Police Station which he was taking part.

Sambuka was found guilty and convicted by First Grade Magistrate Damson Banda.

First Grade Magistrate Banda told YFM that on February 18, the convict did not appear in court for sentencing and upon inquiring the court was told that the convict escaped.

Magistrate Banda, who is also the chairperson for the Child Rights Committee in the district, has since asked the police ensure that justice has been delivered in the matter.

Phalombe Police Publicist, Innocent Moses asked for more time before commenting on the matter.

Phalombe is one of the districts in the country that are registering a high number of defilement cases.