Police in Mponela have arrested George Yotamu, a 51-year-old, for being found in possession of 80 bags of Chitowe (NPK) fertilizer, which they suspect to be counterfeit.
Mponela Police spokesperson Macpatson Msadala confirmed the incident, stating that it occurred on September 14, 2024, in Mziya village within the area of Traditional Authority Chakhaza in Dowa District.
Msadala mentioned that the suspect was apprehended following a tip-off by concerned community members. They suspect that the counterfeit fertilizer was being used by mixing it with sand and manure.
Currently, Yotamu is in police custody, and the fertilizer has been seized for testing by forensic experts at Chitedze in Lilongwe District.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges related to the counterfeit fertilizer.
Yotamu hails from Msanjo village in the area of Traditional Authority Chakhaza in Dowa District.
