Kasungu Police Arrest Fourth Suspect in K53m Bitumen Theft

Police in Kasungu have arrested a 46-year-old man, Duncan Gowero, in connection with the theft of bitumen worth K53 million.

According to Kasungu Police spokesperson Inspector Joseph Kachikho, the stolen consignment, 158 drums of bitumen, went missing on February 19, 2026, from Chatoloma Mota Engil Camp.

Earlier, authorities arrested Temwa Gondwe, an administrative assistant at the camp, and Chifundo Malombe, a truck driver. The two reportedly confessed that the theft was part of an organised syndicate allegedly orchestrated by Hudson Tamva Twea, who is said to have diverted the truck transporting the bitumen.

Investigations indicate that the stolen bitumen was taken to Area 28, where it was offloaded before being distributed using multiple vehicles.

Police later apprehended Twea, who has denied any involvement. Gowero was subsequently arrested on suspicion that he helped transport part of the stolen consignment to Area 38.

So far, police have recovered 31 drums of bitumen, while efforts to recover the remaining stock continue.

Gowero comes from Mwinjiro Village under Traditional Authority Mwambo in Zomba District.