The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has arrested two senior officials from the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) in connection with an alleged fraudulent transfer of US$403,615, equivalent to approximately K700 million.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued by MPS Deputy National Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Alfred Chimthere.
The suspects are NOCMA Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mikias Reuben, 54, and Senior Operations Manager Thokozani Jacob Sesani, 49.
Police say the two are expected to face charges including negligence by a public officer in preserving money, misuse of public office and other related offences.
According to investigators, the funds were transferred to account number 237055126003, belonging to Moniray Mozhandling Lda. The payment was reportedly intended to cover fuel loading and clearing charges at the ports of Beira and Nacala in Mozambique.
However, authorities are investigating the legitimacy of the transaction and whether proper due diligence was followed before the funds were released.
Reuben is from Kabera Village under Traditional Authority Makwangala in Ntcheu District, while Sesani hails from Kathongera Village under Traditional Authority Chulu in Kasungu District.
Both officials held senior positions at NOCMA with responsibilities linked to the company’s operational and financial affairs.
NOCMA plays a critical role in safeguarding Malawi’s fuel supply.
The case comes amid persistent public concern over fuel shortages and the management of foreign currency used to finance fuel imports.
Stakeholders have repeatedly called for greater transparency and accountability in NOCMA’s financial transactions, particularly payments involving foreign companies.
Police have stressed that investigations are still underway and that the suspects will appear before court once the legal processes are completed, where they will have an opportunity to answer the charges.
The arrests have attracted public attention, particularly because NOCMA is a strategic state-owned company whose operations directly affect fuel availability and prices.
The case has also renewed calls for stronger financial controls and accountability in public institutions, with concerns that alleged mismanagement of public funds can undermine public confidence.
Police have urged the public to remain patient as investigations continue, assuring citizens that the law will take its course.
The MPS has reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption and protecting public resources.
