Woman Arrested For Stealing Money From A Friend’s Mobile Account After Being Asked To Help With A Technical Issue.
Published on January 30, 2026 at 11:32 AM by Evance Kapito
Police in Karonga have arrested a 36-year-old woman, Ireen Nyondo, for allegedly stealing K145,000 from a friend’s mobile money account after being asked to help with a technical issue.
According to Karonga Police Deputy Public Relations Officer, Margret Msiska, the victim had approached Nyondo seeking assistance with her mobile phone, claiming she was experiencing difficulties navigating certain features.
Police reports indicate that Nyondo took advantage of the victim’s request for help to carry out the theft.”The suspect secretly removed the victim’s SIM card from the handset and later used it to withdraw the funds at a mobile money agent within the township,” Msiska stated.
The victim only realized the money was missing later, prompting a police report. Investigators, working in close collaboration with the mobile network provider, managed to trace the transaction back to the specific location and time of the withdrawal, leading to Nyondo’s identification and arrest.
She has been formally charged with Theft, which contravenes Section 278 of the Penal Code. She is expected to appear in court shortly to answer to the charges.
Police have used the incident to warn the public against sharing mobile phones or sensitive PIN information with others, even those they consider friends or acquaintances.
Ireen Nyondo hails from Mwambuli Village under the jurisdiction of Paramount Chief Kyungu in Karonga District.
