Malawi Freedom Network 
By MFN News Desk
September 30, 2026
The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) says the deployment of drones along the country’s borders has helped curb the smuggling of goods into Malawi.
MRA spokesperson Patrick Achitabwino said the drones have assisted the authority in apprehending suspected smugglers while also helping officials identify routes and methods used to illegally bring goods into the country.
The drones were deployed in August 2024 as part of measures introduced by the MRA to strengthen border surveillance and combat smuggling.
Achitabwino said the authority has also introduced a confidential hotline through which members of the public can report suspected tax smuggling activities.
He said reports are investigated by the MRA and, where the information is verified and leads to action, the informant can receive a reward.
The MRA says the combination of technology, public reporting and enhanced border surveillance is helping strengthen efforts to protect government revenue and prevent illegal trade.
