ZRA Seizes 800 Cases of Smuggled Cigarettes Worth K7.8 Million
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has intercepted a truck carrying 800 cases of smuggled Vikings cigarettes, resulting in a potential revenue loss of K7.8 million.
According to ZRA Corporate Communications Manager, Mr Oliver Nzala, the goods were transported in a truck bearing registration number LZ 46 TN GP, which was en route from South Africa, transiting through Chirundu, and destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The truck had been declared as carrying assorted household items in transit.
However, Mr Nzala said vigilant ZRA officers trailed the vehicle to a warehouse in Lusaka’s Garden House area, where the offloading was scheduled.
“An inspection conducted at the warehouse revealed boxes of Vikings cigarettes concealed within the consignment,” he stated.
Following the discovery, the warehouse was secured and sealed, while the truck and the entire consignment were seized by the Authority.
Mr Nzala warned importers and transporters involved in similar smuggling schemes that they risk having their goods and vehicles seized and forfeited to the State, in addition to facing prosecution in the courts of law.
He said ZRA’s decisive action against fraudulent activities is aimed at promoting legitimate trade and protecting government revenue, adding that all importers are encouraged to make accurate declarations of goods being imported.
Mr Nzala further appealed to members of the public and transporters to report any suspected cases of smuggling to the Zambia Revenue Authority.
