Four Chipata hospital employees deny involvement in theft of K2.8 million COVID-19 kits

Four employees from Chipata Level One Hospital have maintained their innocence in the theft case involving COVID-19 kits worth over K2.8 million.

The accused — Judith Dzekedzeke (47), a biomedical technician; Malama Nkhata (44), a driver; Langson Kampango (54), a biomedical technician; and Hilton Kasanyika (29), a station handyman — have been placed on their defense after the prosecution established a prima facie case.

The accused face two counts of theft by a public servant and theft.

Dzekedzeke, testifying in her defense, explained that on March 17, 2023, she was called to the medical superintendent’s office, where she was detained by police officers.

She was shown a list of allegedly seized items, recognizing only the COVID-19 test kits used in the lab.

She denied involvement in any theft, detailing the rigorous ordering and approval process for the kits, and asserted that no reports of missing items had been made.

Nkhata, the stores officer, also denied any knowledge of stolen items.

He testified that during his time working with Dzekedzeke, no discrepancies in supplies had been observed.

Kampango denied involvement, stating that his responsibilities as a handyman were limited to cleaning the lab and that he was unaware of the seized items until the court proceedings.

Kasanyika also denied any involvement, explaining that he had been at work when the medical supplies were allegedly found at his residence.

He maintained that he had no knowledge of the items in question.

Judgement is set for March 3, 2025.

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