ZRA seizes fuel tanker allegedly smuggling 33,000 litres of ethanol worth K1.4 million

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has reportedly seized a fuel tanker for smuggling 33,000 litres of ethanol into Zambia, leading to the arrest of the truck driver.

ZRA Manager for Corporate Communications, Oliver Nzala, confirmed the seizure in a statement issued on Sunday.

The truck, with registration number LF 47 RN GP, was intercepted following intelligence reports about a smuggling cartel falsely declaring ethanol as being in transit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“The tanker, carrying ethanol from South Africa, entered Zambia through the Victoria Falls Border in Livingstone with a declaration that it was destined for DRC. However, the ethanol was offloaded in Lusaka before the truck proceeded to Sakania border. Inspections at the border revealed the tanker was empty,” Nzala stated.

He added that the driver was arrested to assist with investigations, and the seized truck would be forfeited to the State.

The estimated revenue loss from the smuggling attempt was K1.4 million.

Nzala further claimed that smuggled ethanol is often used in the production of counterfeit alcoholic beverages, which creates unfair competition and poses significant health and safety risks.

“ZRA has intensified vigilance at border points to curb illicit trade and counterfeits. We urge the public to share intelligence reports to help dismantle smuggling cartels for the public good,” he said.

The Authority emphasized its commitment to combating smuggling under a one-government approach to enhance trade compliance and protect citizens.

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