By Julius Sakala
Thirty-four tonnes of copper cathodes have been stolen in Pemba District, Southern Province, after criminals allegedly diverted the truck transporting the consignment.
The incident occurred on Sunday, January 4, 2026, around 20:00 hours, between Muzoka Trading Centre and the Nachibanga area.
Southern Province Police Commanding Officer MOONO NAMALONGO has confirmed the incident, which was reported by a security officer who was escorting the consignment.
Mr. NAMALONGO said the truck has since been recovered, but the driver, identified as MABVUTO MUNTHALI, aged 44, remains missing after being taken away by the suspects.
He explained that preliminary investigations indicate that while the truck was en route to Kazungula, Mr. MUNTHALI and the security officer, PATHIAS MUSONDA, were ambushed.
Mr. NAMALONGO said Mr. MUSONDA reported that upon stopping at Muzoka Trading Centre, they were confronted by three men and one woman.
He added that Mr. MUSONDA was overpowered and forced into another vehicle carrying three other men adding that he was tied with a rope and driven along the Maamba Road, where he was later abandoned.
Mr. NAMALONGO said Mr. MUSONDA managed to free himself and reported the matter at Batoka Police Post. The hijacked truck was later found abandoned in Chief HAMAUNDU’s area.
He added that the copper cathodes were not recovered and the whereabouts of Mr. MUNTHALI remain unknown, as police continue with investigations.
ZNBC