AGRICULTURE OFFICERS IN FISP FERTILIZER SCANDAL
THREE officers from the Ministry of Agriculture in Luanshya District and two others have appeared before the Luanshya Magistrate Court for the alleged theft of fertilizer valued at K50,816.70.
It is alleged that the three officers while acting with two others stole fertilizer meant to benefit farmers under the 2022/2023 Farmer Input Support Program (FISP).
Jane Kasakula 47 and Chibuye Ngosa 37 both agriculture officers and James Sakala 43, a block extension officer, all of Luanshya District are charged with one count of Theft by Public Servant, contrary to Section 272 and 277 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
Others are Justine Kayenge 33, a stock controller of ETG, the company supplying fertilizer, and Steward Mwansa 30, a businessman who stand charged with Theft, contrary to Section 264 and 272 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
When the matter came up for Plea before Luanshya Magistrate Muyangana Mututwa, all five suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges labeled against them.
The matter was adjourned to February 10, 2023 for commencement of trial.
The suspects are remanded in police custody while the fertilizer is held at Luanshya Central Police Station for safe keeping.
Zanis