Malawi Freedom Network 
By Our Reporter
Heightened security vigilance at Zomba Central Prison has led to the interception of 20 SIM cards concealed inside boiled Irish potatoes brought for two inmates.
The incident happened on September 3, 2026, when a visitor, identified as Sphiwe Ngwira, brought food for inmates Yusuf Kankosya and Esau Billy.
According to prison authorities, the SIM cards were packed in four bundles and hidden inside the potatoes. They were detected during routine screening using a security scanner installed at the prison to prevent the smuggling of prohibited items.
Gaoler Tamara Gondwe detected an anomaly during the initial scan and ordered a second screening. A subsequent manual search confirmed the presence of the SIM cards.
The Officer-in-Charge of Zomba Central Prison, Deputy Commissioner of Prisons Owen Mahalawipha Levi, praised the officers for their vigilance and warned visitors against attempting to smuggle contraband into the facility.
“This scanning machine is part of our commitment to enhance security. Let this serve as a warning to anyone attempting to smuggle contraband. Such acts will not be tolerated and offenders will face the law,” Levi said.
Prison records show that Kankosya and Billy are each serving 24-year prison sentences for entering a protected area with a weapon and possessing endangered species.
The confiscated SIM cards have since been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
The prison has also intensified security measures to prevent the smuggling of prohibited items and help curb cybercrime within the facility.
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