In a shocking incident, six unidentified individuals armed with an unknown type of firearm raided a Food Reserve Agency (FRA) shed in Chivuna, Mazabuka, stealing 70 bags of maize grain weighing 50 kilograms each. The stolen maize is valued at K23,100.
The Incident
The aggravated robbery took place in the early hours of 18th January 2025. The robbers arrived in a Canter truck accompanied by a smaller vehicle. Upon arrival, they threatened two guards, Chrispine Mweemba (46) and Davison Hansikili (43), with firearms.
After beating the guards and tying them up with ropes, the assailants forced them to unlock the main door to the shed, gaining access to the stored maize. The robbers loaded the 70 bags onto their vehicles before fleeing the scene.
Mutinta Malesa, the FRA Depot Clerk, reported the incident to the Chivuna Police Post shortly after the robbers fled.
Police Response
Southern Province Deputy Commissioner of Police, Moono Namalongo, confirmed the incident in an official report. He revealed that the police have opened a docket and launched an investigation into the robbery.
Deputy Commissioner Namalongo appealed to the public for assistance in locating the stolen maize and apprehending the culprits. He urged anyone with information to report to their nearest police station.
Community Concern
The robbery has sparked concerns in the Chivuna area about the safety of FRA sheds and the protection of strategic food reserves. Residents are calling for heightened security measures at such facilities to prevent similar incidents.
As investigations continue, the police remain committed to recovering the stolen goods and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
