By Elezo Libanda
International News – 22 July: The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Lusaka successfully arrested a Tanzanian national at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport for trafficking in cocaine, which he had concealed within his body by swallowing. The suspect, identified as Jacob Mzinga, aged 49, was apprehended on arrival from Brazil. He now faces charges of Trafficking and Importation of Narcotic Drugs, a violation of Act No. 35 of 2021 of the Laws of Zambia.
According to Delight Haangala, the deputy public relations officer for DEC, Mzinga had already discharged 104 pellets of cocaine, weighing a total of 2.312 kilograms. The extraction process is ongoing as authorities continue their investigation.
Ms. Haangala expressed concern over the prevailing trend of drugs flowing from South America, transiting through Zambia, and reaching Southern and Eastern Africa. She emphasized the Commission’s commitment to detecting drugs, regardless of the methods used for concealment, citing this recent seizure as a testament to their capabilities.
In a separate incident, the Commission also apprehended Evans Mbulo, 32 years old, for trafficking 36 sachets of Cocaine, weighing 2.7 grams. The arrest took place in the Matero Compound of Lusaka, an area where the Commission has received numerous reports of drug-related activities.
Ms. Haangala urged the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of drug abuse and trafficking to the Drug Enforcement Commission. She highlighted the risks faced not only by drug users but also by those who might become targets of harassment from such consumers.
The DEC’s continued efforts in combating drug trafficking serve as a crucial reminder of the significance of collaboration between law enforcement and the public to maintain a drug-free society.
Source: Mwebantu,
