By 
Two Kapasa Makasa University students convicted of drug trafficking have pledged to become ambassadors against drug abuse after receiving suspended sentences.
Trevor Moonga, 24, of Garden House, and Isaac Mumba, 23, of Riverside, Petauke, were found guilty of trafficking in narcotic substances contrary to Section 15(1)(2) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021, as read with Statutory Instrument No. 119 of 1995.
Lusaka Magistrate Keegan Litiya convicted the duo after they pleaded guilty to the charges.
Moonga expressed remorse, saying: “I apologise to the State, court, and society for engaging in such an act instead of focusing on my education. This will be my last time engaging in such behavior.
“We pledge to become ambassadors for our fellow students, sharing our experiences and the consequences of our actions. I humbly ask for leniency as my future lies in your hands.”
Mumba echoed the sentiments, stating that his time in detention taught him the harsh realities of prison life.
“I will use this lesson to educate others. I am a student on a government loan, and this is my only chance to secure a future. I humbly ask for a second chance to continue my studies,” he said.
Magistrate Litiya delivered a balanced ruling, acknowledging the students’ remorse and potential for reform while stressing the severity of their offense.
“Narcotics trafficking is a serious crime that ruins lives. Your status as students does not exempt you from punishment. I sentence you to one year imprisonment, suspended for one year.
“ If you reoffend within this period, you will serve this sentence in prison. Focus on your education and avoid quick money, as it will only lead to more problems. If you reoffend, you will face a 10-year prison term. Do you understand?”
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