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Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president, Andrew Kamanga, has been arrested with three other individuals for money laundering.
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) Assistant Public Relations Officer, Sydney Katongo, made the announcement in Lusaka on Tuesday.
Katongo explained in a statement that Kamanga was jointly charged with his General-Secretary, Reuben Kamanga.
Others are Madalitso Kamanga and Jailous Siame, residing in Woodlands Chalala and Mumbwa Road respectively.
Katongo said the individuals had been jointly charged with several offenses including obtaining money by false pretenses.
He said other offenses were obtaining pecuniary advantage by false pretense and conspiracy to defraud government.
“DEC investigations revealed that the suspects while acting together obtained K341, 902.00 from the Government of the Republic of Zambia under false pretenses,” Katongo highlighted.
He said this money was purportedly allocated as allowances for Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame to attend the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Katongo added that the allowances were transferred into their personal accounts with each one Madalitso and Jairous getting K170, 951.
He stated that the duo also further obtained return tickets valued at K99,980.
“It was discovered that the funds were disbursed to two individuals under the guise of being FAZ officials, necessitating their attendance with the advance party for AFCON,” Katongo said.
He said investigations revealed that neither Madalitso nor Jairous held official or executive positions within FAZ.
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Katongo said this fraudulent activity transpired between January, 1 and February, 15, 2024, coinciding with the dates of the Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast from January, 13, to February, 11, 2024.
“The suspects are currently finalising bond processes and will appear in court soon. The DEC underscores its unwavering commitment to combating money laundering offenses within Zambia,” he assured.
Katongo stated that the joint charges against FAZ officials and associated individuals demonstrate the DEC’s dedication to upholding the law and preserving the integrity of financial systems.
He reaffirmed DEC’s stance against all forms of illicit activities, including those perpetrated under false pretenses.
“The Commission will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in money laundering schemes, ensuring accountability and justice for all,” Katongo said.
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