The State has added 12 fresh charges in the alleged K5 billion cement-gate case involving former President Peter Mutharika’s security aide Norman Chisale and four others.

Director of Public Prosecution Steven Kayuni told High Court Judge Redson Kapindu that the additional charges follow findings of an investigative report by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA).

Kayuni said the number of the counts has now increased from the initial six to 18 charges.

But reacting to the development, one of the defence lawyers, Emmanuel Theu expressed worry over continued delays by the State on the case.

Chisale is answering the money laundering and abuse of office charges alongside former State House Chief of Staff Peter Mukhitho, MRA deputy commissioner Roza Mbilizi and businessperson Mahmed Chunara together with his father Ahmed Chunara.