Seven individuals, including stores clerks from the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) and drivers from Rashy Transport, have entered pleas of not guilty to charges of conspiracy, theft, and money laundering in connection with a K2.5 billion fuel theft scheme. The fuel in question was intended to power Aggreko generators on behalf of Escom in 2018.
The fuel was supplied by the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) and transported by Rashy Transport to various generation sites. However, it is alleged that some Escom clerks and Rashy Transport drivers conspired to steal the fuel before it reached its designated locations.
The accused, named as Andrew Nicholus Salama, Kenneth Kachere, Michael Makungwa, Ronald Mhango, Thokozani Passo, Edward Kankhande, and Isaac Mkwezalamba, all denied the charges in court.
State prosecutor Dzikondianthu Malunda expressed satisfaction that the case is finally progressing. “We are happy that the matter has finally taken off, and we look forward to presenting our case,” he stated.
Defense attorney Gift Katundu confirmed that the defense is prepared for the state to present its witnesses. The case is expected to shed light on the alleged scheme, which involved substantial financial losses and disruptions to Escom’s operations.
