The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has set March 3, 2025, as the judgment date for four employees of Chipata Level One Hospital, who have denied stealing COVID-19 kits worth over K2.8 million.
The accused are Judith Dzekedzeke, 47, a biomedical technician; Malama Nkhata, 44, a driver; Langson Kampango, 54, a biomedical technician; and Hilton Kasanyika, 29, a station handyman. They face two counts of theft by a public servant and theft.
During their defense on Wednesday, the accused maintained their innocence, with each providing their account of events.
Dzekedzeke explained the procedure for ordering COVID-19 test kits, stating that she would raise a request, which would then be authorized by her superiors. She denied any involvement in the theft, asserting that she was not responsible for receiving or storing medical supplies. Dzekedzeke also claimed that she was not shown any exhibits or lists during the police investigation.
Nkhata, the driver, denied any knowledge of the stolen goods allegedly found at his house. He claimed that he was at work when the police arrived and that he was not informed about the stolen goods.
Kasanyika, the medical laboratory technologist, stated that he was not shown any exhibits or lists during the police investigation. He claimed that he was summoned to the police station without explanation and was later released on bond.
Kampango claimed that he was also summoned to the police station without explanation. He stated that he was not responsible for receiving or storing medical supplies and that he had no knowledge of the stolen goods.
During cross-examination, the prosecution presented evidence regarding the alleged theft, including testimony from witnesses who claimed to have seen the accused handling the stolen goods. However, the defense disputed this evidence, arguing that it was unreliable and contradictory.
