The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Zambia has arrested several individuals, including a Tanzanian national, for trafficking cannabis and cocaine. The arrests were made under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021.

In Eastern Province, Kumuzinga Phiri, a 47-year-old woman, was apprehended at Chanida Border with 28.5 kilograms of cannabis, comprising 105 balls and loose cannabis. In a separate operation in Nyimba District, David Zulu, aged 36, was caught with 23 kilograms of dry cannabis, while Shadrach Mwanza, aged 44, was found with 9.5 kilograms of the drug.

In Kasempa District, North-Western Province, police arrested two individuals, Nomai Sitali, aged 50, and Astridah Musana, aged 44, for possession of 0.48 grams of suspected cocaine. Meanwhile, in a coordinated operation spanning Chirundu and Lusaka, DEC officers intercepted a Tanzanian national, Ally Omary Hassan, aged 48, who was traveling from South Africa with 10.4 kilograms of high-grade cannabis concealed in stereo speakers.

In Central Province, DEC operatives arrested 37-year-old Rose Nali, also known as Kutemba, in Kabwe. Nali was found in possession of 668 sachets and two pre-packs of cannabis, weighing a total of 5.13 kilograms. Authorities also seized K6,256.00 in cash, suspected to be proceeds of her illegal activities. Additionally, in Kasempa District, 45-year-old Justine Chipili was arrested for trafficking 228 sachets of cannabis and loose cannabis weighing 1.21 kilograms.

The DEC has also confirmed an operation conducted in Lusaka’s Nyumba Yanga area at the residence of former Western Province Permanent Secretary, Danny Bukali. While investigations are ongoing, the Commission has assured the public that updates will be provided.

The DEC has reiterated its commitment to combating organized crime and urged citizens to report suspicious activities related to drugs and money laundering. All the suspects are currently in lawful custody as investigations progress.

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