Alleged scam: Why ex-MP, Sampa’s trial failed to kick-off in $5,600 theft case

Former Kasama Member of Parliament, Kelvin Mutale Sampa, on Friday failed to commence his defence in a case where he is jointly charged with a police officer for allegedly stealing US$5,600 and K6,600 from Nigerian businessman, Augustus Inyang Akpan.

When the matter came up before Lusaka Magistrate Irene Wishimanga, Sampa’s lawyer informed the court that they could not proceed as the accused was serving a sentence in another case.

“We seek a short adjournment because the accused is currently serving a sentence in another matter, and we have not had time to obtain full instructions from him. He also needs to organise documents he intends to rely on. We sincerely apologise,” the defence submitted.
Magistrate Wishimanga granted the application and adjourned the matter to September 22 for the commencement of defence.

Sampa, who is on police bond in this case, is jointly charged with Richard Shula, a serving police officer.

The two are accused of stealing the said amounts from Akpan on January 5, 2025, in Lusaka.

According to the prosecution, Sampa allegedly acted with other unknown persons, while Shula is accused of stealing the money which came into his possession by virtue of his position in the police service.

Sampa is charged with theft under Section 272 of the Penal Code, while Shula faces a charge of theft by a public servant under Sections 272 and 277.

Both pleaded not guilty but were found with a case to answer.

The adjournment comes just a month after Sampa was sentenced to two years imprisonment for swindling Japanese businessmen of US$150,000 on the pretext of supplying gold.

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