Mbabane police have recovered 13 more Bizhub Konica Minolta photocopying machines linked to a theft case involving a 44 year old technician from Mpaka, bringing the total number of recovered units to 25.
The machines form part of 30 units valued at E600 000 that went missing during a routine equipment exchange at Mhlume. The theft was discovered on January 3, 2026, after only 70 machines were returned to the company offices from an assignment that involved replacing 100 units.
Police said the suspect was part of the technical team tasked with collecting the old machines. Concerns were raised when a company investigation later spotted a photocopying machine similar to the missing units being advertised on social media, leading to a formal report to the police.
The latest recovery followed investigations that led officers to several locations in Manzini, with additional machines found at Eteteni in Matsapha. Police believe the spread of recovery points points to an organised effort to conceal and distribute the stolen property.
Investigators also uncovered that the suspect allegedly removed toner cartridges from his workplace under the guise that they were required for servicing machines in other areas. Police say the cartridges were instead diverted for personal use linked to a private business operation.
The suspect was earlier arrested in Mbabane, where 12 machines were initially recovered, and he has since appeared before the Mbabane Magistrate’s Court. Police confirmed that investigations are continuing, with five machines still unaccounted for.
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