The Zambia Police Service in Kaoma District has arrested two male suspects in connection with a case of theft by public servant involving farming inputs under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

Western Division Police Commissioner, Rae Hamoonga, identified the suspects as 46-year-old businessman Febian Watema of Chilombo Compound in Kaoma, and 36-year-old Agriculture Extension Officer Knock Fundi, formerly based in Kaoma and recently transferred to Shangombo District.

Mr Hamoonga disclosed that the arrests followed a report made on January 27, 2026, by District Agriculture Marketing Officer Howard Halubobya, who reported the theft of eight packs of farming inputs comprising sixty-four 50kg bags of fertilizer valued at K67,200.

The inputs were allegedly stolen on January 19, 2026, within Kaoma Township.

Investigations revealed that the inputs were redeemed at Mundale Agro Shop by Mr Watema.

Police later apprehended him and recovered two packs, equivalent to sixteen 50kg bags of fertilizer, from his residence. Upon questioning, he stated that he was directed by Mr Fundi, who allegedly sold him the packs for K12, 000.

Mr Fundi was subsequently arrested on January 29, 2026 and admitted selling the inputs to Mr Watema, claiming he had obtained them from another person he could only identify by facial appearance.

Mr Hamoonga said both suspects are in police custody and will be charged once investigations are concluded.

He warned public officers against abusing their positions for personal gain.

“The Zambia Police Service Western Division warns public officers against abusing their positions for personal gain and assures the public that anyone found engaging in theft or manipulation of government programmes will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” Mr Hamoonga said.