Uncovering of Human Trafficking Link
The Zambian Department of Immigration has taken significant steps to address immigration-related issues, resulting in the removal of 203 illegal immigrants, the conviction of 56 individuals, and the apprehension of 96 persons suspected to be involved in human trafficking.
On January 20th, 2024, the Lusaka Regional Immigration Office conducted a mass removal exercise, eliminating 77 Prohibited Immigrants from the country. The removed individuals comprised 54 Burundians, 22 Tanzanians, and one Ugandan.
A similar operation took place in Kitwe on January 17th, 2024, where 36 Prohibited Immigrants, mainly Tanzanians and Burundians, were removed after paying court fines for illegal entry and engaging in business without permits.
Namati H. Nshinka, the Public Relations Officer, stated that these actions brought the total number of prohibited immigrants removed by the Department of Immigration to 203 between January 17th and January 21st, 2024.
In another significant development, the Nakonde Immigration Office secured the conviction of a 53-year-old Rwandese national, Emile Nsabimana, for unlawful return and illegal entry.
Nsabimana had been arrested on December 30, 2023, and subsequently sentenced to twelve months imprisonment for unlawful return and a K3,000 fine or nine months imprisonment for illegal entry.
Meanwhile, the Lusaka Regional Immigration Office obtained the conviction of two Burundians, Joshua Tuyisenge (26) and George Irakoze (26), for unlawful stay.
The individuals were apprehended during a routine compliance operation and were each sentenced to pay a fine of K 30,000 or face nine months of simple imprisonment.
In a separate incident, the Petauke Immigration Office arrested a 27-year-old Zambian, Harrison Kapila, in connection with the harboring, aiding, and abetting of 15 undocumented Ethiopian nationals.
Kapila, initially a whistleblower, is now under investigation following new evidence suggesting his potential involvement in the offense.
The Department of Immigration warns foreign nationals against violating the Immigration and Deportation Act, emphasizing a commitment to enforcing immigration laws.
The recent actions showcase the government’s dedication to maintaining immigration integrity and ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
Mr. Nshinka said that, investigations into the Petauke incident are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
