By Jones Gadama
A 20-year-old man, Smart Chimwala, has been arrested by police in Balaka for being found in possession of petrol without a permit.
The incident occurred near the Puma Filling Station in the district.
According to police, a team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Dan Sauten, Officer-in-Charge of Balaka Police Station, were conducting general observations within the township when they spotted Chimwala draining petrol from a motorcycle into a jerrycan.
He was immediately arrested, and 80 liters of petrol were seized from the scene.
Chimwala is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of possessing petrol without a permit.
The police in Balaka are warning residents against storing petroleum products in their homes, citing the risk of fire accidents.
In a statement, Sergeant Mphatso Munthali, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Balaka Police Station, appealed to residents to exercise caution when handling petroleum products.
The police will continue to crack down on individuals found violating regulations regarding the handling and storage of petroleum products.
Residents with information on such activities are encouraged to contact the police.
