The Zambia Police Service has apprehended two suspected human traffickers, with one other on the run, following an interception of a human trafficking incident along Ngwerere Road, near Kalimba Farms, Chongwe District.

According to Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, the incident occurred today December 2, 2024, at approximately 10:30 hours.

He said officers from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Police Station had set up a motor vehicle screening point at Hellensdale Junction, before Kalimba Farms, where they stopped a suspicious dark blue Toyota Hiace minibus with registration number ABF 4650.

“The vehicle had fully tinted windows and a red number plate painted black, which raised suspicions,” he said.

He added that upon closer inspection, the officers observed an unusual scene of individuals lying on top of each other in the vehicle, prompting further inquiry.

When questioned about the passengers, the driver and two accomplices suddenly abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

The officers gave chase but were unable to apprehend them immediately, as they disappeared into a nearby farm.

Upon returning to the vehicle, the officers discovered 13 male individuals of Ethiopian origin who appeared frail and weak.

Preliminary interviews revealed that the group had embarked on a journey from Ethiopia, passing through Kenya and Tanzania, and were en route to South Africa to meet a person whose identity has been withheld for fear of jeopardizing the ongoing investigations.

Mr Hamoonga stated that “All 13 individuals have since been taken into custody for their safety and further questioning, adding that two suspects from the fleeing group, including the driver, have been apprehended.

“Efforts are underway to locate the third suspect but the officers immediately called for reinforcements from the station and police headquarters Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with a focus on dismantling the trafficking network responsible for facilitating this crime” he concluded.