Govt warns against economic crimes as Mufulira Copper case goes to Court

Government has warned individuals who may seek to engage in criminal activities that law enforcement agencies will continue to strengthen measures aimed at detecting, investigating, and prosecuting offences that threaten national development.

The warning comes after law enforcement authorities moved to investigate and bring before the courts individuals alleged to be involved in the theft and unlawful handling of copper cathodes recovered in Mufulira District.

In a statement issued by Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, Government said the protection of national resources, public assets and private property remains a fundamental responsibility.

Kawana said the developments in the Mufulira in which former Copperbelt Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi has been arrested demonstrated government’s continued commitment to strengthening accountability, transparency and good governance.

“Government considers the protection of national resources, public assets, and private property as a fundamental responsibility and remains unwavering in ensuring that all acts of criminality are dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.

He emphasized that allegations of wrongdoing must be subjected to thorough investigations and appropriate legal processes.

Kawana stated that the law applied equally to all citizens and that no individual is above the law. Public trust in national institutions can only be sustained when accountability was upheld.

He said there would be no tolerance for acts that undermine Zambia’s economic interests and erode public confidence in institutions.

“There will be no tolerance for theft, corruption, abuse of authority, or any conduct that undermines Zambia’s economic interests and the confidence of citizens in institutions established to serve and protect them,” the Permanent Secretary warned.

Kawana said at the same time all investigations and prosecutions would be handled fairly and in line with constitutional principles.

“Government remains committed to ensuring that all investigations and prosecutions are conducted fairly, independently, and in accordance with constitutional principles, including respect for the rights of all persons before the law,” he noted.

Kawana commended law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders for safeguarding the country’s resources and upholding the rule of law, and urged members of the public to continue providing information to prevent crime.

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