Mukhito Hails Police Crackdown on Illegal Fuel Network in Mangochi
Minister of Homeland Security, Hon. Peter Mukhito, has confirmed a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal fuel trading following a successful police operation in Mangochi District.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, Mukhito said the intelligence-led operation was conducted by the National Police Headquarters Special Investigation Team after receiving credible information from a member of the public.
According to the Minister, police acted swiftly on the tip-off, carrying out targeted raids at identified locations suspected of storing fuel illegally.
“At the first scene, officers recovered 33 jerrycans of 20 litres each, all filled with fuel,” reads part of the statement.
“At a second location, 19 drums of 200 litres each were discovered, along with several additional 20-litre jerrycans, also filled with fuel.”
Mukhito said the scale of the recovered fuel points to a well-organized illegal network, which has now been disrupted.
“All recovered fuel has been secured and placed under Police custody as part of ongoing investigations,” he said.
He added that a comprehensive investigation has since been launched to trace the source of the fuel, identify all individuals involved, and uncover the full extent of the distribution network, including any businesses that may have facilitated the operation.
The Minister also commended the citizen who provided the information, describing the act as patriotic and vital in protecting national resources.
“This success is not only a victory for law enforcement — it is a victory for patriotism,” he said.
He further urged Malawians to take an active role in safeguarding the country by reporting suspicious activities.
“Security is not the responsibility of government alone — it is a shared duty. When you see something, say something,” he emphasized.
Mukhito reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all those involved are prosecuted, while also strengthening monitoring systems within the fuel supply chain and intensifying similar operations across the country.
He concluded by warning that those engaging in illegal activities that threaten the economy and national security will be identified and brought to justice.