By Rahim Abdul
Police in Zomba have arrested a 32-year-old laboratory technician from Zomba Central Hospital for allegedly stealing medical equipment and consumables valued in millions of kwacha.
The suspect, identified as Ian Kambwala, was apprehended following a detailed investigation conducted by Detective Sergeant Lonjezo Maalo and his team.
According to law enforcement authorities, a search at Kambwala’s home in Sadzi Township led to the discovery of several hospital items, including microscopes, hemacue machines, pipettes, glucometers, and various test kits used for diagnosing HIV, hepatitis B, and malaria.
Hospital officials have since confirmed that the recovered items belong to Zomba Central Hospital.
Police say the arrest follows a report made by the hospital management after noticing irregularities in stock records. The case has exposed loopholes in internal control systems within the hospital, raising questions about accountability and supervision of medical supplies.
Kambwala, originally from Village Laiti, Traditional Authority Bvumbwe in Thyolo District, has been charged with theft by a public servant and remains in custody pending further investigations.
Authorities say efforts are underway to trace and recover other missing medical items believed to have been taken from the hospital over time.
