Zambian Authorities Crack Down on Identity Theft and Drug Trafficking
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Zambia has launched a comprehensive crackdown on identity theft and drug trafficking across the country.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Anti Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) of the DEC, aims to root out criminal activities that pose a threat to society.
The recent arrests made by the DEC highlight the severity of the issues at hand. Leonard Banda, a 46-year-old resident of Linda Compound in Lusaka, has been apprehended for identity theft and money laundering offenses totaling over ZMW 32,000.
Banda, in collaboration with unknown accomplices, forged National Registration Cards (NRCs) and other documents to fraudulently obtain credit from financial institutions.
Furthermore, the DEC’s proactive approach has led to significant breakthroughs in the fight against drug trafficking.
In Nchelenge District of Luapula province, John Mulenga, aged 62, was arrested for cultivating over 500 kilograms of cannabis plants.
Similarly, John Kalenga Katwishi, a 28-year-old from Chiengi District, was apprehended for trafficking over 70 kilograms of loose cannabis, allegedly sourced from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
The DEC’s relentless pursuit of justice extends beyond national borders. In a joint operation with officers from Chirundu and Lusaka Province, a South African national, Kim Armour Gittings, was arrested for trafficking over 500 grams of suspected high-grade cannabis.
The operation, which involved intercepting illicit substances on a bus from South Africa, underscores the DEC’s commitment to regional cooperation in combating transnational crime.
Additionally, the DEC has uncovered a network of individuals involved in the illegal distribution of pharmaceutical drugs. Fanwell Mechi, a 26-year-old businessman, was apprehended for trafficking 120 bottles of Benlyine containing Codeine.
Another suspect, Bright Chitondo, aged 39, was found in possession of 59 bottles of Codeine, further highlighting the pervasive nature of drug-related crimes in Zambia.
Mwenge Mulenga, the Public Relations Officer of the Drug Enforcement Commission, emphasized the commission’s proactive stance and urged the public to remain vigilant in reporting suspicious activities.
The DEC’s unwavering dedication to combating crime reaffirms its commitment to building a safer and healthier Zambia for all citizens.
