In a shocking incident, three men have been arrested for allegedly stealing a 50-kilogram bag of maize meant for Cyclone Freddy response in Phalombe district.

The incident occurred on Sunday when the truck driver, Peter Chimkango, and his assistants, Mayeso Chimaliro and Yamikani Nansanya, went to Chitakale to mill the maize for distribution to the flood survivors at Sukasanje camp.

According to reports, the suspects sold the bag of maize to an individual for K28,000 before they were caught by the police. The theft has raised concerns among the public about the safety and security of aid meant for disaster victims.

Mulanje Police Spokesperson Sergeant Innocent Moses, who confirmed the incident, said that the suspects were arrested following a tip-off from members of the public who were suspicious of their movements.

The authorities have condemned the theft and assured the public that such criminal acts will not be tolerated.