By Suleman Chitera
Police in Zomba have arrested a 27-year-old man, Emmanuel Moyo, on allegations of defrauding business people and members of the public through a series of fraudulent schemes, including fake Airtel Money transactions, lottery scams, and online vehicle sale fraud.
According to police, the latest incident occurred on June 4, 2026, at Zomba Market Square, where Moyo allegedly obtained assorted brand-new clothes worth K690,000 from a local businessman after falsely claiming that he had transferred payment through Airtel Money.No more transfers, only firings: Phiri issues stark ultimatum to Zomba City council staff
However, after verifying the transaction, the complainant discovered that the payment message was fake and no funds had been credited to his account.
Police say that after obtaining the goods, the suspect fled the shop and later travelled to the Matawale and Chinamwali areas, where he allegedly sold the stolen clothes to unsuspecting buyers.
Following a thorough investigation, detectives from the Chinamwali Police Unit tracked down and arrested Moyo.
Further investigations have linked the suspect to several other fraudulent activities. Police allege that Moyo deceived members of the public by informing them that they had won lotteries and various prizes before demanding money from them as processing or collection fees.
Authorities also suspect him of obtaining money from victims by falsely claiming they had won prizes such as corrugated iron sheets and other valuable items.Massive turnout at Zomba whistle stop rally demonstrates support for APM’s vision
In another alleged scam, Moyo reportedly advertised a motor vehicle for sale on Facebook and collected payments from prospective buyers without delivering the vehicle.
Police have intensified investigations to identify additional victims and recover more stolen property connected to the suspect’s activities.
Moyo is expected to appear before court soon to answer charges related to fraud and other offences arising from the investigations.
Police have since urged members of the public and business operators to exercise caution when conducting mobile money transactions and online purchases, and to verify payments before releasing goods.
Emmanuel Moyo hails from Gologota Village under Traditional Authority Tsabango in Lilongwe District.MBS Commends Zomba Shop Owners for Compliance with Food Safety Standards