By Burnett Munthali
Police in Mzimba District have taken into custody two men after they were allegedly found transporting Cannabis sativa without the necessary authorisation, a development that has once again highlighted ongoing enforcement efforts against illegal drug movement in Malawi.
The incident occurred on the night of August 6, 2026, when officers stationed at a roadblock in Jenda stopped a Toyota Sienta, registration number BW 2336, which was travelling from Lilongwe to Mzuzu. During a routine inspection, police reportedly uncovered 19.2 kilograms of suspected Cannabis sativa inside the vehicle. The occupants were unable to present any permit or documentation allowing them to possess or transport the substance.
The individuals arrested have been identified as 49-year-old Davide Chikomeni Chirwa from Chitichi Village under Traditional Authority Mzikubola in Mzimba District, and 45-year-old Storm Kandodo of Mpulula Village under Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District.
After the discovery, officers seized the suspected cannabis, which has been secured as an exhibit as investigations continue and preparations for court proceedings are underway.
Both suspects are currently being held at Jenda Police Station and are expected to be formally charged with possession of Cannabis sativa without a permit, an offence under Malawi’s drug control laws, once all legal processes are completed.
Sub-Inspector Gladwell Simwaka, who serves as Public Relations Officer for Jenda Police Station, confirmed the arrest and emphasized that police will continue strengthening road patrols and roadblock operations aimed at preventing the illegal movement of narcotic substances across the country.
The development comes as authorities continue to reinforce compliance with regulations governing controlled substances, stressing that proper licensing remains a key requirement in efforts to curb drug-related offences nationwide.
