By Paul Madise

Lilongwe, February 7, Mana: Police at Chitipi in Lilongwe have arrested six people allegedly for vandalizing irrigation system and stealing of K70 million worth of installed equipment at a certain private farm in the district.

The suspects have been identified as George Watson, 25, Dikilani Chokazinga, 29, Richard Lyton, 40, Positani Gediyasi, 32, Samuel Banda, 27, and Chibvumbulutso Banda, 30.

According to the police report, the suspects stole two giant diesel generators, three phase water pumps, six solar panels, a water tank, and three phase electricity cables, among many more items.

Owner of the farm, which is located in Njewa, told police that the vandalism and theft of the materials have occurred between the months of August 2024 and January this year.

The suspects remained unknown during the commission of the offences, until detectives instituted investigations which unmasked their identities.

Following their arrest, the suspects led police to various places where they sold the stolen materials which has led to the recovery of a 260-watt solar panel, irrigation pipes, and metal door, among others.

“Efforts are still underway to recover more property because they are still leading us to various places where they sold the stolen properties,” said Hastings Chigalu, who is Lilongwe Police spokesperson

He added that the six are expected to appear in court next week to answer vandalism and theft charges.