KABWE, Zambia – A 39-year-old former postgraduate medical student has been arrested for allegedly defrauding a desperate mother of K20,000 by posing as a qualified doctor and promising to help secure her son’s surgery through social welfare assistance.

Michael Phiri, a Malawian national, was detained by Kabwe Police on Tuesday following a month-long manhunt that began after he disappeared with the money.

The elaborate fraud began on August 15, 2025, when Phiri approached Susan Nambeya, 42, of Kanyama Compound, at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) where he was doing part-time work. Nambeya’s son had been admitted for surgery, creating a vulnerable situation that Phiri allegedly exploited.

According to police reports, Phiri falsely introduced himself as a medical doctor at UTH and offered to help secure the surgery through social welfare programs. The total procedure cost was K40,000, and Phiri convinced Nambeya to pay half the amount upfront – K20,000 – under the pretense that he would facilitate the remaining funding.

“The suspect deceitfully offered to assist her secure her son’s surgery through Social Welfare,” police stated in their report.

After receiving the money, Phiri disappeared entirely, leaving Nambeya without the promised assistance and K20,000 poorer. The case highlights the vulnerability of families facing medical emergencies and the trust they place in hospital staff.

Police launched an investigation that spanned over a month, finally tracking down Phiri on September 17, 2025. He was arrested and is currently in police custody awaiting court proceedings.

The case raises serious questions about security protocols at major medical facilities and the ease with which fraudsters can exploit desperate families.

The Zambia Police Service has indicated they are taking the matter seriously, though details about potential systemic changes to prevent similar incidents have not yet been announced.

Phiri is expected to appear in court soon to face charges of obtaining money by false pretenses. If convicted, he could face significant prison time under Zambian law.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine if there are additional victims or accomplices involved in the scheme.