By 
Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Joseph Malanji, has denied owning two helicopters linked to alleged proceeds of crime, telling the Economic and Financial Crimes Court that he has “never owned an aircraft” in his life.
Testifying in his defense, Malanji refuted claims that he possessed a Bell 430 and a Bell 206 Jet Ranger, stating the helicopters belong to Gibson Air Charters.
He faces charges alongside former Secretary to the Treasury, Fredson Yamba, for alleged failure to follow procedures in managing public resources.
Malanji criticised the prosecution’s argument that the helicopters were secretly flown to South Africa, describing it as “a complete fabrication.”
He added that the Bell 430 never obtained an export permit from South Africa to Zambia, making its alleged re-importation impossible.
“There is documentation showing that Zambia’s Civil Aviation Authority inspected the Bell 430 in South Africa. At the time, Zambia did not have such an aircraft, making it necessary for Gibson Air Charters to operate it under a foreign license,” Malanji said.
Regarding the Bell 206, he explained that it was purchased as a backup aircraft due to increased demand for smaller helicopters.
He noted that the transaction was financed by Gibson Power Systems through ABSA Bank, citing delays in foreign exchange transmission at Stanbic Bank.
Malanji also clarified that the Bell 206 underwent clearance and servicing in Zimbabwe before its formal registration under Gibson Air Charters.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments