Update: 3 Arrested Over Missing K60 Million GeneXpert Machines at Machinga Hospital
Published on July 9, 2025 at 9:15 AM by Evance Kapito
Police in Liwonde have arrested three individuals suspected to be connected to the disappearance of two GeneXpert machines, which are used for testing tuberculosis (TB) and other related conditions.
According to Liwonde Police Public Relations Officer, Ngwashape Msume, the arrests have been made in connection with the theft, although she did not disclose the identities of those apprehended.
Msume has confirmed that investigations are still ongoing and that the missing machines have not yet been recovered.
However, it is rumored that the suspects are hospital staff working at the government-run Machinga District Hospital, where the machines went missing.
The two machines, valued at approximately K60 million, reportedly disappeared in the early hours of Tuesday, triggering immediate concern from health officials and law enforcement.
The GeneXpert machines play a critical role in diagnosing TB and other infections, and their disappearance is likely to affect diagnostic services at the hospital and in surrounding communities.
Police say the investigation is continuing as efforts to recover the equipment and bring all involved to justice intensify.
