The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has initiated an intensified nationwide campaign to combat drug trafficking activities across Zambia. This initiative aligns with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021, as well as various international conventions aimed at addressing drug-related crimes.

At the Kazungula One-Stop Border Post in Southern Province, DEC officers executed an intelligence-led operation resulting in the arrest of 49-year-old Given Sichilindi, a truck driver from Kabwata, Lusaka. He was apprehended for trafficking 20 boxes containing 960 bottles of Benylin with Codeine, which were being transported from South Africa to Zambia. The drugs were discovered during a physical inspection of his truck, registered under BAR 9408 and BAR 9410.

In another operation at the same location, 45-year-old Jeff Zulu from Kamuchanga, Mufulira, was arrested for trafficking 20.6 kilograms of cannabis concealed in a bag on his truck’s bed. His vehicle was also transiting from South Africa.

Additionally, 32-year-old Mazuba Hamatanga, a truck driver from Lusaka West, was caught with 19 boxes (912 bottles) of Benylin with Codeine hidden in a toolbox within his truck, registered as BAZ 3834 ZM and trailers BAC 267 and BAC 268T.

In a separate operation in Mkushi District, DEC officers arrested four individuals for the illegal cultivation and trafficking of cannabis along the Luano River, seizing 5.8 kilograms of the substance. The suspects include 20-year-old Chaka Steven Jr. and 45-year-old Chaka Steven Sr. from Nkhulumashiba, as well as 46-year-old Emeldah Tonyo from the same area. Additionally, 25-year-old Saviour Simwinga from the Dam area in Mkushi was arrested for trafficking 51 pre-packs of cannabis weighing 4.2 kilograms, found in his home.

The Drug Enforcement Commission is committed to protecting the public from the dangers of drug trafficking and substance abuse. They encourage the public to report any suspicious activities to their nearest DEC offices.