By Jones Gadama
A joint operation by Mchinji One Stop Border Post (OSBP) police has resulted in the arrest of five Zambian nationals and one Malawian for attempting to smuggle petroleum to neighbouring Zambia.
The suspects were apprehended at Total Energies Filing Station in Mchinji district, where they were found with 42 jerrycans of petrol, totaling 840 liters.
Mchinji Police Public Relations Officer, Limbani Mpinganjira, confirmed the development, stating that the arrests were made following public concerns over the rampant exportation of liquid gas to Zambia.
The operation, which took place on the night of March 20, 2025, was intelligence-driven and aimed at curbing the illegal exportation of petroleum products.
The suspects, including one woman, were found to be in contravention of Section 41 (e) of the Liquid and Gas Act and Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) regulations.
The arrests are a significant step in addressing the concerns of the public and ensuring that the illegal exportation of petroleum products is brought under control.
The Mchinji Police have been proactive in addressing various crimes in the district, including human trafficking.
In a recent incident, police rescued nine people, including four children, who were being trafficked to Zambia.
The police have also warned communities against vandalizing police property, emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order.
The Malawi Police Service has been working tirelessly to ensure that the country’s laws and regulations are enforced.
The service has been conducting various operations, including “Operation Kutwa,” which has resulted in the recovery of stolen property worth millions.
As the country prepares for the 2025 elections, the police service has been undergoing training on electoral laws and management.
The training, which is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to equip police officers with the necessary skills to manage public order and ensure a fair electoral process.
The arrest of the five Zambian nationals and one Malawian for attempting to smuggle petroleum to Zambia is a significant step in addressing the concerns of the public and ensuring that the illegal exportation of petroleum products is brought under control.
The Mchinji Police and the Malawi Police Service as a whole will continue to work tirelessly to enforce the country’s laws and regulations.
