Maid, accomplice behind bars over theft of 74 tablets in Lilongwe

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

Police at Lingadzi Police Station have arrested two suspects in connection with the theft of dozens of electronic devices valued at more than MK51 million.

Lingadzi Police Station spokesperson Sergeant Maria Kumwenda identified the suspects as Anastanzia Fabiano (35) who was employed as a domestic worker and her alleged accomplice Luciano Chitimbe (35).

According to Kumwenda, the case involves the disappearance of 74 Samsung tablets belonging to Aulive Msoma, who reported the matter after discovering the items were missing from her residence.

Kumwenda said officers immediately launched investigations using intelligence-led methods.

She said the breakthrough came when police traced one of the stolen tablets that had already been sold.

“The individual found in possession of the tablet told police that he bought it from Luciano Chitimbe,” said Kumwenda.

Chitimbe was later arrested and, during questioning, led police to Fabiano, who had access to the house where the tablets were kept.

Police say Fabiano allegedly used her position of trust as a maid to facilitate the theft and removal of the devices.

Further investigations led to the recovery of 33 tablets, with efforts continuing to trace the remaining items.

Both suspects have since admitted their involvement in the offence, according to police.

Fabiano comes from Michiliro Village, Traditional Authority Mthiramanja in Mulanje District, while Chitimbe hails from Chinkondenji Village, Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District.