Tanzanian truck driver, 37 undocumented Ethiopians arrested in Mpika

A joint team of Immigration and Police Officers in Mpika has arrested a 54-year-old Tanzanian truck driver, Charles Lumato, along with 37 undocumented Ethiopian nationals aged between 14 and 39, who were found locked inside a truck under distressing conditions.

The suspected smuggling incident occurred on March 23, 2025, at around 12:00 hours at the Mpika Weigh Bridge.

A loud banging noise from a parked Scania truck alerted passers-by, leading to the discovery.

Zambia’s Department of Immigration Public Relations Officer, Namati Nshinka, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued in Lusaka on Monday.

He said the truck, bearing registration number T430 DUZ with trailer T979 DVB, was driven by Lumato, who opened the container after hearing the banging sounds.

Inside, officers found 37 Ethiopian nationals struggling to breathe due to exhaustion and lack of oxygen.

Read More:Lusaka, Nyimba raids lead to arrest of 39 illegal immigrants by Immigration office

“Immigration Officers from the Mpika Immigration Office and Police officers based at the Mpika Weigh Bridge quickly responded and rescued the distressed individuals,” Nshinka stated.

Five of the Ethiopians, who were in critical condition, were rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care.

They were later discharged and, along with the others, are now in custody pending further investigations.

The Department of Immigration has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat migrant smuggling and related crimes.

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