Press Trust Chair Linda Phiri Arrested

Press Trust Chairperson Linda Phiri has been arrested by the Anti Corruption Burea (ACB) over a K28.9 billion deal.

According to ACB, Phiri was picked up on Friday together with others who work for Greenbelt Authority.

Phiri sits at the pinnacle of one of the largest trusts in the country, Press Trust, a majority shareholder of conglomerate Press Corporation Limited.

Phiri, who works as Greenbelt Authority Finance Manager Linda Phiri was picked up together with Procurement Manager Masausto Kamowa.

The Bureau has also arrested Kenneth Khonje of Eistein Construction and Victor Chabwera of PLMB Engineers.

Information we have gathered indicates that on November 10, 2025, the ACB received a complaint alleging that the Greenbelt Authority in 2025 dubiously awarded contracts to several construction companies.

It is alleged that the Authority made advance payments amounting to K28.9 billion to the companies.

Further allegations suggest that owners of the said companies gave part of the money they received from the Greenbelt Authority to politicians for political campaigns, while some of the funds were allegedly given to Greenbelt Authority employees.

Asked to provide more details on the matter, ACB Acting Director General has confirmed the arrests.

He said: “I can confirm the arrests made on Friday. However, I am unable to provide further details at this time, as the operation is still ongoing. The Anti-Corruption Bureau will issue a press statement once the arrests are complete and it is appropriate to do so.”