Major Seizure of Contraband at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has successfully carried out a major operation at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport resulting in the seizure of substantial contraband and the detention of ten suspects.
Acting on a tip-off, the DEC, in collaboration with various Law Enforcement Agencies, launched an operation on Monday, August 14, 2023, at the airport. The operation was conducted in response to information that a chartered aircraft carrying dangerous goods had landed at the airport on August 13, 2023, at 19:00 hours.
The operation led to the seizure of several items of concern:
- USD 5,697,700
- Five (05) pistols
- Seven (07) magazines
- 126 rounds of ammunition
- 602 pieces of suspected gold weighing 127.2 kg
- Equipment used for measuring gold
In connection with this operation, the DEC has confiscated the aircraft involved, a Global Express T7-WW, which contained the above-mentioned items. Another aircraft belonging to a local airline, identified as a King Air B190, has also been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
The operation has led to the detention of ten individuals, including a Zambian national. The suspects are currently in custody, pending further investigations into the matter.
The DEC’s swift response to the received information and its successful operation underscore the agency’s commitment to combatting illicit activities and maintaining the safety and security of Zambia’s borders. Further details regarding the investigation will be provided as they become available.
