By Burnett Munthali

A 35-year-old woman from Zomba, identified as Jessie Mpanira, was apprehended while attempting to smuggle marijuana into Zomba Maximum Prison. Police have confirmed the incident, which occurred during her visit to her brother, a life-term inmate at the facility.

According to Deputy Police Publicist Andrew Mwale, Jessie Mpanira hails from Duncan Village under Traditional Authority Malemia in Zomba. Mwale explained that the suspect concealed the marijuana inside a portion of nsima (a staple food in Malawi) intended for her brother.

The illicit attempt was foiled during routine inspections conducted by prison officers. Upon discovery, the authorities immediately arrested Mpanira, and she now faces charges of attempting to smuggle prohibited items into a correctional facility.

This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in curbing illegal activities within prison systems. The case is currently under investigation, and Mpanira is expected to appear in court soon to answer the charges against her.