DEC arrests man for alleged cybercrime, swindling public of K626,700

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has formally charged and arrested Dalitso Mbewe, 32, of Lusoke Village, Chongwe District, Lusaka Province.

The arrest, DEC says, is part of ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime, theft and money laundering activities threatening Zambia’s financial systems.

DEC Spokesperson, Allan Tamba, stated that Mbewe was charged with unauthorised access to data, contrary to Section 49 of the Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Act No. 2 of 2021, and theft, contrary to Section 272 of the Penal Code CAP 87.

Additionally, he was charged with money laundering, contrary to Section 7 of the Prohibition and Prevention of Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010.

Tamba explained that Mbewe, acting with unknown accomplices, accessed data from a named institution between October 1, 2023, and July 19, 2024.

He fraudulently transferred over K626,700 from a client’s account to his Airtel Mobile Money Account and various accounts belonging to his relatives and friends.

Mbewe used the stolen funds to acquire properties, including a Gold Rav 4 motor vehicle (registration number AEB 1029ZM) and a piece of land in Kalubungo village, Chongwe District, Lusaka Province.

“The suspect is currently on bond and is expected to appear in court soon,” Tamba stated.

He urged citizens and business persons to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to cybercrime, theft, or money laundering.

“The DEC will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard the interests of the public and uphold the rule of law,” Tamba assured.

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