Two trucks carrying fertilizer under the government’s flagship Farmers Input Subsidy Program (FISP), intended for beneficiaries in Balaka and Ntcheu districts, have reportedly been stolen. The main suspect, widely known as Khama, has since been released on police bail under controversial circumstances few ago and now on the run after commiting same crime.
Khama was first arrested two weeks ago after a truck transporting FISP fertilizer for the Ntcheu North area went missing. Investigations later indicated that the fertilizer had allegedly been sold to him. He remained in custody at Ntcheu Police Station until his release last week.
Over the weekend, another truck carrying fertilizer destined for the Mbela area in Balaka also disappeared. Subsequent findings again linked Khama to the alleged sale of the entire consignment. Sources claim he has been receiving protection from a senior officer at Balaka Police Station, Superintendent Gideon Chisale.
One police officer assigned to provide security has since been arrested, while the truck driver is reportedly on the run along with Khama.
According to inside sources, both the Balaka station officer and the arrested officer allegedly received MK1.3 million each to facilitate the theft and illegal sale of fertilizer intended for vulnerable farmers.
Sources further allege that Khama has been arrested multiple times in connection with similar cases in Balaka and Ntcheu but has consistently avoided prosecution through bribery of officers at the respective stations.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with efforts focused on uncovering the full network behind the theft of fertilizer meant for poor Malawians and the resulting loss of public funds.
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