By Shaffie A Mtambo
A recent crackdown by the Lilongwe Police has led to the arrest of four men for being in possession of Cannabis Sativa without a permit. The suspects, identified as Joshua Majomeka, 27, George Kachala, 26, Levison Spear, 28, and Shadrick Mbewe, 36, were apprehended at Lizulu market in the capital.
Acting on a tip-off, detectives from the station raided the market and searched several makeshift structures, uncovering a substantial amount of cannabis. The seized items included 85 cigarettes, 27 packets of cannabis seeds labelled Invegrow, two plastic bags, three cartons, and several small packets containing loose cannabis. Additionally, carton packages containing loose cannabis were found in Joshua’s car, tagged with possible destination names such as Mzuzu.
Initially, Joshua escaped the scene, abandoning his vehicle, but later surrendered to the authorities at Area 3. The police had already seized the cannabis and impounded the motor vehicle.
The suspects will appear in court this week to face charges of Found in Possession of Cannabis Sativa Without a Licence. In the meantime, the seized cannabis has been sent to Chitedze Research Station for analysis. According to Inspector Hastings Chigalu, Lilongwe Police Police Public Officer
It’s worth noting that possession of cannabis is a serious offense, and penalties can range from up to 5 years in prison.
Joshua Majomeka comes from Chilomoni Village, Traditional Authority Kapeni in Blantyre, George Kachale is from Zifa Village, Traditional Authority Chili in Kasungu,Levinson Spear hails from Manyingala village, Traditional Authority Nsabwe in Thyolo while Shadreck Mbewe comes from Thomas village, Traditional Authority Kwataine in Ntheu District.
