Indian National Nabbed at KKIA with USD2.3 Million and Suspected Gold
Authorities at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) have apprehended a 27-year-old Indian national in a major smuggling bust involving millions in foreign currency and suspected gold.
According to a statement released by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), the suspect, identified as Aamir Soeb Patel, was intercepted on Friday, 18th April 2025, by a Joint Operations Team comprising DEC officers and other State Security Agencies (SSAs) stationed at KKIA.
Patel was found in possession of USD2,320,000 in undeclared cash and seven (07) pieces of suspected gold estimated at USD500,000, as he attempted to smuggle the items to Dubai.
The DEC has confirmed that investigations into the matter are ongoing. The commission has pledged to inform the public once the investigations are concluded.
“The long arm of the law will catch up with those involved in transnational organised crimes,” said Allan Tamba, Public Relations Officer for the DEC. “We urge the public to refrain from illegal activities that hinder our country’s social and economic progress.”
Mr. Tamba further encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities, adding that collective action is vital in combating crime and protecting Zambia’s integrity and national security.
