Zomba Central Prison Foils Cannabis Smuggling Attempt with New Scanning Machine
Published on January 29, 2026 at 12:24 PM by Evance Kapito
Zomba Central Prison has recorded a major breakthrough in strengthening institutional security after foiling an attempt to smuggle cannabis into the facility, coinciding with the deployment of a newly installed scanning machine.
Station Officer for Zomba Central Prison, Mr. Gustone Malisye (ACP), commended the security team for their vigilance, saying the successful interception demonstrates the prison’s zero tolerance to security breaches.
“Our team’s efforts, combined with the effectiveness of the scanning machine, have sent a strong message that we will not tolerate any attempts to compromise prison safety and security,” Malisye said.
The incident occurred when Gaoler Gideon Kapenda detected a suspicious item concealed in a 5-kilogramme bag of flour during routine screening. A detailed search later uncovered a hidden bag of cannabis.
General Duties Officer at the station, Superintendent Samuel Chimgwenembe, praised the officers’ swift action, noting that the scanning machine proved instrumental in detecting the contraband.
“The scanning machine proved its worth, and our team’s quick response ensured the illicit substance was seized before entering the prison,” Chimgwenembe said.
Acting Discipline Officer, Assistant Superintendent Shadreck Mkwaila, reaffirmed the prison’s commitment to maintaining safety within the facility.
“We are grateful for the scanning machine and will continue working tirelessly to ensure the prison remains safe and secure for both inmates and staff,” Mkwaila said.
Further investigations linked the smuggling attempt to inmate Davie Chiphwere and transporter Davie Bamusi. A follow-up search led to the recovery of an additional bag of cannabis.
Bamusi told investigators that he acted only as a transporter and identified Richard Kabambe as the alleged mastermind behind the operation.
Richard Kabambe (30), of Chathunya Village in Balaka District, and Davie Bamusi are currently in police custody at Zomba Police Station and are expected to answer charges related to the offence.
The Malawi Prisons Service has reiterated its commitment to upholding security standards, commending the professionalism and dedication of its officers in preventing contraband from entering correctional facilities.
