A call has been made to government and non-governmental entities to come together in pursuit of justice for the brutal killing of a 12-year-old girl in Thyolo.

The victim, who was initially reported missing, was later found dead and raped.

Rabecca Kashoti, Thyolo Police publicist, confirmed the tragic news.

Memory Ngosi Chisenga, a leading child rights activist in the country, has urged authorities to fast-track the case so that justice can be served.

Chisenga stated that the killing of the girl is a tragic reminder of the danger faced by children in the country, and called for child protection organizations to join forces in seeking justice for the victim.

Chisenga also emphasized the need for harsher punishment for those found guilty of such crimes, in order to act as a deterrent for would-be offenders.