Security operatives probe alleged packaging of fake mealie meal in Kamwala area

An investigation into a case in which some people were illegally repackaging different mealie meal brands in Lusaka’s Kamwala South area is currently underway.

The investigation is being undertaken by the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.

ZCSA Head of Communications, Brian Hatyoka, noted that this development was a violation of the Zambian Compulsory Standard – ZS 189-Maize Meal Specification.

Hatyoka in a statement issued on Thursday said the agency had since taken some samples of the seized mealie meal brands to the laboratory for further analysis.

“In the meantime, the seized products will be quarantined pending laboratory analysis, after which an action will be taken, including disposal in line with the provisions of the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017.

“The Agency will enhance enforcement activities in a bid to ensure that only safe products are allowed on the market,” he said.

ZCSA, Hatyoka said, had warned of stern action against entities illegally manufacturing products covered by compulsory ethics in homes or other hidden places.

The agency had also issued a stern warning to organisations which were either importing and supplying products on the market in contravention of applicable compulsory standards.

The public was also encouraged to report any illegal manufacturing of mealie meal, bottled water, beverages and other products covered by compulsory standards to protect consumers from unsafe products.

“ZCSA implores the public to become whistle-blowers and report suspicious products to the nearest ZCSA office at any of the major border posts or provincial centres or Head Office in Lusaka or through the Agency’s Facebook page so that appropriate enforcement actions are taken.

“The Agency has a whistle-blowers policy and upholds confidentiality in line with its core values in a quest to protect whistle blowers,” Hatyoka said.

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