LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Mkukula First Grade Magistrate court in Lumbadzi Dowa has convicted Nigerian businessman for offenses related to illegal possession and attempted externalization of foreign currency.
The Nigerian businessman aged 45-year-man and identified as Collins Iheanacho Bernard was arrested last week.
Public Relations Officer for Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) Police Sapulani Chitonde Lee said the convict was found with US$2,800 and was intending to externalize it out of Malawi.
According to Chitonde, the First Grade Magistrate Mervis Sulumba, sentenced Bernard to pay a fine of K250,000 and in default serve 12 months imprisonment with hard labour and K500,000 or in default 12 months imprisonment with hard labour for attempting to externalize foreign currency.
“Bernard pleaded guilty to the charges and asked for leniency stating that he is a bread winner and a resident in Malawi and that the money was given to him by his brother to give a sick relative in Lagos, Nigeria,” he indicated.
However, State Prosecutor argued that such behavior deprives the government of revenue and hinders its ability to provide essential services to citizens.
Meanwhile, Bernard has since paid the fine of MK750,000 and the confiscated $2800 has been forfeited to the Malawi Government.