By Aisha Chiwaya

Salima, April 8, Mana: The Salima First Grade Magistrate Court has convicted and fined Adam Likagwa, 34, to pay K2 million or, in default, serve a 12-month jail term for being found in possession of 576.68 Kilograms of Chamba without license.

According to Salima police Public Relations Officer (PRO), Sub Inspector Rebecca Ndiwate, the Court heard through the Regional Prosecution Inspector, Ida Mzama, that Likagwa was arrested on March 22, 2025 at around 3:30 PM at Chikumba area where officers mounted an ad-hock roadblock.

"Mzama further told the court that Likagwa failed to produce relevant document permitting him to possess the hemp which was fully loaded in his Toyota Sienta vehicle," said Ndiwate.

Appearing before court, Likagwa pleaded guilty to the charges levelled against him. In mitigation, Likagwa prayed for leniency, citing family obligations.

During submission, the state pleaded for a stiffer punishment considering the quantity of the prohibited goods.

First Grade Magistrate Anthony Banda concurred with the State and ordered him to pay a fine of K2 million and the immediate disposal of the Cannabis by burning to serve as a deterrence to other would be offenders.

Adam Likagwa hails from Kambadi Village, Traditional Authority Nsamala, in Balaka district.