By Shaffie A Mtambo
The Mangochi First Grade Magistrate’s Court has convicted and fined 45-year-old Steven Ajasi K800,000 for possessing 520 litres of liquid petroleum without a valid permit.
Speaking with 247 Malawi News Mangochi Police Public Relations Officer Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, says the court heard from Prosecutor Sub Inspector Davie Katandika that on March 23, 2025, Ajasi was intercepted at Idrusi Roadblock along Bakili Muluzi Highway while transporting 520 litres of petrol in drums and jerrycans from Mangochi towards Chiponde border.
He was arrested on the spot, and the fuel was confiscated, upon failing to produce valid documentation.
Appearing in court, Ajasi who was represented by Counsel Smart Khalifa pleaded guilty to the charge of illegal possession of liquid petroleum.
In mitigation, he pleaded for leniency, citing financial losses in his business and the responsibility of providing for his family.
However, Prosecutor Katandika argued that the illegal possession of fuel hampers national development and poses serious risks to lives and property. He, therefore, requested a stiffer penalty to deter others.
In his ruling, First Grade Magistrate Roy Kakutu concurred with the prosecution and ordered Ajasi to pay a fine of K800,000 or serve an eight-month prison sentence in default.
Additionally, the court ordered that the confiscated 520 litres of petrol be forfeited to the Malawi Government.
Ajasi has since paid half of the fine, with the balance due in two weeks.
He hails from Nanyumbu Village, Traditional Authority Kawinga in Machinga District.
