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Man Arrested in Nkhotakota Over K28 Million Charity Scam
Published on March 2, 2026 at 1:45 PM by Edgar Naitha
Police in Nkhotakota have arrested 26-year-old Yusuf Siliyasi on suspicion of obtaining money by false pretence and impersonating a representative of a charitable organisation.
According to Chisomo Chuma, spokesperson for Nkhotakota Police Station, the alleged offences occurred between May and June 2025 in Mpamantha Village. Siliyasi, who reportedly presented himself as a Sheikh, is said to have worked with five accomplices while claiming they represented Ummah Muslim Welfare Trust in partnership with Mai Aisha Trust to assist vulnerable people in the area.
The group allegedly charged K7,000 from each registered beneficiary, claiming the money was for printing and laminating identity cards required to access aid. Police say nearly 4,000 people paid the fee, with the suspects reportedly collecting about K28 million after promising assistance between July and September 2025.
The suspected fraud came to light when community members established that the organisation does not operate in Nkhotakota and reported the matter to police.
Siliyasi remains in custody and is expected to appear in court soon. Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt for the five other suspects who are still at large.
