ACC seeks forfeiture of ex-Lusaka province minister, Lusambo’s properties over unexplained wealth

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Court to approve the forfeiture of properties belonging to jailed former Lusaka Province Minister, Bowman Lusambo, including his Chamba Valley residence.

The ACC argued that Lusambo had failed to provide evidence of legitimate income to justify his accumulated wealth.

Lusambo, however, has urged the court to dismiss the application, describing it as based on “mere suspicion” rather than concrete proof.

Read more: Ex-Lusaka minister, Lusambo, seeks dismissal of ACC’s asset forfeiture case, maintains innocence

In his legal submission, he likened the ACC’s case to a sculptor working without clay, arguing that suspicion alone does not amount to proof.

He further insisted that the law demands clear evidence before assets can be forfeited and maintained that the case lacks merit.

The ACC is seeking to seize several properties allegedly linked to Lusambo’s questionable dealings, including his residence in Chamba Valley, six incomplete flats, and three houses in Silverest Gardens.

According to ACC investigations officer Mulenga Mulenga, Lusambo had failed to prove that his declared income aligned with the value of his properties.

The Commission pointed to his failure to provide evidence that he legitimately earned $350,000, which he claimed was used to construct his Chamba Valley residence.

Further investigations revealed discrepancies in the valuation of Lusambo’s assets.

A government valuation officer estimated his Chamba Valley home at K17.6 million, while Lusambo’s records indicate it was built at a significantly lower cost of K1.6 million.

The ACC also alleged that Lusambo failed to pay property transfer taxes on some of his real estate transactions.

Without essential financial documents, such as payslips, bank statements, or employment letters, the ACC arguesd that Lusambo’s claims of being a self-made businessman remain unsubstantiated.

The Commission maintained that, in the absence of concrete financial records, there was no evidence to support the argument that Lusambo’s wealth was accrued through legitimate means.

The ACC had urged the court to grant the forfeiture application.

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