Zambian FAZ Officials Arrested on Money Laundering Charges
Four individuals, including two high-ranking officials from the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), have been arrested by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) on charges of money laundering.
The arrested include Andrew Kamanga, FAZ President, Reuben Kamanga, FAZ General Secretary, Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame.
According to Sydney Katongo, the DEC Assistant Public Relations Officer, the suspects allegedly obtained K341,902.00 (approximately $19,000 USD) from the Zambian government under false pretenses.
The funds were earmarked as allowances for Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame to attend the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
Investigations revealed that neither Madalitso Kamanga nor Jairous Siame held any official positions within the FAZ.
The DEC alleges the money was diverted into the personal accounts of Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame, with each receiving K170,951.00 (approximately $9,500 USD) alongside return airfare valued at K99,980.00 (approximately $5,500 USD).
The fraudulent activity is said to have occurred between January 1st and February 15th, 2024, coinciding with the 2023 AFCON tournament held in Ivory Coast.
The suspects are currently in the process of finalizing bond procedures and are expected to appear in court soon.
The Drug Enforcement Commission has emphasized its commitment to combating money laundering offenses in Zambia.
The DEC has pledged to continue investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in money laundering schemes.
