Six behind in Ntchisi over theft of subsidised farm inputs

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

Police in Ntchisi District have arrested six people in connection with the alleged theft of fertiliser and seed meant for beneficiaries of the Farm Inputs Subsidy Programme (FISP).

The arrests were made at Malomo Smallholder Farmers Selling Point where the subsidised agricultural inputs were being distributed.

Ntchisi Police spokesperson Sub Inspector Salomy Zgambo confirmed the development.

She said the incident took place on January 7, 2026, following reports of irregularities in the handling of FISP inputs.

Zgambo said preliminary, investigations indicate that the suspects unlawfully accessed fertiliser and seed without the authorisation of registered beneficiaries.

She said the stolen inputs were diverted before reaching the intended recipients.

“Among those arrested are four employees working at the selling point, alongside a local businessman suspected of facilitating the scheme,” Zgambo explained .

She identified suspects Stella Banda (32), Merriam Mtema (25), Steve Emmanuel (22), Benard Mtema (20), James Kambalame (46) and Misheck Bua (31).

Authorities believe the theft may have disrupted the distribution process for vulnerable farmers in the area.

Police have since secured the remaining agricultural inputs as investigations continue.

Zgambo said all six suspects will be formally charged and taken to court once inquiries are concluded.

Police have warned that they will not tolerate abuse of government programmes intended to support smallholder farmers.