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Two Tanzanian nationals allegedly involved in a large-scale trans-national drug trafficking syndicate have been arrested, according to Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) Spokesperson Allan Tamba.
The arrests followed drug interdiction activities across Lusaka and the Copperbelt Province, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of illicit substances.
Tamba stated that the suspects were apprehended for trafficking 1,246 pre-packs of high-grade cannabis weighing over 2.5 tonnes and methamphetamines weighing 88.316 grammes.
The crime contravenes section 15 of the Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021 of the Laws of Zambia.
The contraband, seized at Intercity Bus Terminus, was concealed in 36 boxes and one polythene bag, transiting from South Africa into Zambia.
The Tanzanian nationals were identified as Friday Mwasamponde, 39, resident of Makeni Villa, and Johari Muhenge, 26, resident of Zingalume compound in Lusaka.
The DEC also seized K119,225 and a Toyota Allion registration number BAF 1813. Other suspects, Augustine Makombo, 22, of Kamwala South and Robby Nawa, 36, of Kanyama Compound, were supposed to pick up the consignment from the Tanzanian nationals at the bus terminus.
From these suspects, DEC officers also seized 37 pepper sprays, 18 tasers, and a Mazda Light Truck with registration number ABV 2714.
In Ndola, DEC officers conducted a well-coordinated operation based on intelligence reports. This led to the arrest of Geshom Matanda, 42, a truck driver from Kamwala South in Lusaka, and James Paul Lombanya, 60, a businessman residing in Ndola.
Eight boxes containing 390 bottles of Benylin with codeine were seized from a truck at Broadway Bus Station in Ndola, which was en route to Kitwe.
Read More: Drug Enforcement Commission nabs two Tanzanians, others for trafficking in illicit drugs
Additionally, DEC officers apprehended three suspects in a sophisticated operation aimed at preventing the smuggling of drugs into Kansenshi Police Station.
A Honda Insight with registration number BCE 6049ZM and a black wallet containing two different driver’s licenses and an old ATM card were also seized.
Tamba assured the nation that officers were working tirelessly, utilizing all available resources and intelligence, to dismantle drug trafficking networks and bring those responsible to justice.
He warned that the DEC would not allow cartels to use Zambia as a transit route for drug trafficking and other illicit activities.
“The Commission’s commitment extends beyond enforcement; we are also focused on preventive measures and community engagement to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse,” Tamba added.
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