Police in Namwera, Mangochi have arrested a 24-year-old pharmacist at Chiponde Health Centre on allegations of stealing assorted government medical drugs from his office.
The suspect has been identified as Jevick Mazunda, from Lufita Village, Traditional Authority Mwaulambia, in Chitipa.
On September 20, 2024, at around 8 p.m., police officers manning Idrusi Roadblock along the Bakili Muluzi Highway intercepted an unregistered Toyota Sienta traveling from Namwera towards Mangochi.
Upon searching the vehicle, the officers found two bags containing assorted medical drugs without proper documentation. When questioned, the driver revealed that he had been sent by the suspect to deliver the bags to an undisclosed person within Mangochi Township.
The drugs found included 14 tablets of paracetamol, 2,000 tablets of ibuprofen, 100 vials of ceftriaxone, 5,040 tablets of LA4, 3,040 tablets of LA3, 5,000 capsules of doxycycline, 100 vials of benzathine penicillin, 15,000 capsules of amoxicillin, and 1,000 capsules of indomethacin.
Both the driver and the drugs were immediately taken to Namwera Police, and the suspect was later arrested following further investigations.
During questioning, the suspect claimed that he had been instructed by District Hospital officials to send the drugs to Mangochi District Hospital. However, when police questioned the officials, they denied the claim, stating that the transfer of government medical drugs between hospitals follows strict procedures. Drugs cannot be transported via public transport, especially at such odd hours and without a medical practitioner or supporting documents.
The suspect has been charged with theft by a public servant, which contravenes Section 286 of the Penal Code. He will appear in court upon the completion of the necessary paperwork.
Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Public Relations Officer
Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999-706-525
Email:amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website:www.police.gov.mw