Nsanje Shadow Councillor, Two Others Convicted for Illegal Fuel Sales

The Nsanje Magistrate’s Court has convicted a shadow ward councillor and two accomplices for illegally selling fuel without a licence, in a case that highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on unregulated fuel trade.

Ruben Basikolo, 34, a shadow councillor for Nyamadzere Ward, and Lazarus Chikoti, 45, were each fined K150,000 or risk serving 12 months in prison if they fail to pay. Meanwhile, Mbanyale Chimbalanga, a 38-year-old businessman, was handed a K400,000 fine, or face 18 months imprisonment after being found in possession of 520 litres of diesel stored in drums and jerrycans at his home.

According to Constable Jabulani Ng’oma, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Nsanje Police, the arrests were made following a tip-off from the public.

“Detectives raided Mbanyale’s residence where they discovered the fuel stash. The other two suspects were apprehended within Baibulo Village under Traditional Authority Malemia while selling petrol without a licence,” said Ng’oma.

The seized fuel has since been confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.