Government has stepped out measures to curb rampant corruption in councils, a senior government official has disclosed.

A statement signed by Principal Secretary in the ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Charles Kalemba says the ministry will not shield nor spare anyone indulging in financial malpractices.

Kalemba was reacting to the arrest of Chitipa council clerk, Lusubilo Mwenitete for allegedly embezzling funds amounting to K12.9 million.

He is quoted as saying that Mwenitete was forging signatures and getting approval for cash withdrawal using fraudulent means.

Chitipa Police spokesperson, Gladson Simwaka said the suspect withdrew the money from the deceased account of a minor in October this year.

This was observed when the council wanted to transfer over K8 million to another council upon request from the mother of the child for easy access of funds.

Simwaka said the suspect appeared to court on Wednesday and currently he is on remand.