By 
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) says it has intensified intelligence-led operations in Lusaka and Eastern Province, arresting 3 suspects and seizing assorted illicit drugs.
DEC Deputy Public Relations Officer, Theresa Mawere said the seizures include Pethidine ampoules, cocaine and 135 kilogrammes of cannabis as part of targeted operations in the two provinces.
Mawere confirmed this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday.
In Lusaka Province, DEC arrested Harriet Tembo, 48, of Kabwata Estates, for trafficking in 158 Pethidine ampoules, also known as Meperidine, a controlled powerful opioid.
“Each ampoule measuring 2 mililitres,” she stated.
The suspect was apprehended in the Central Business District while allegedly selling the controlled drugs and was found in possession of 38 ampoules.
A subsequent search was conducted at her residence led to the discovery of an additional 120 ampoules.
In a separate operation, the Commission arrested Kasongo Kasanga, 23, of Kabwata Flats, for trafficking in seven rocks of crack cocaine after intelligence linked him to the illicit drug trade.
Meanwhile, in Eastern Province, DEC arrested Jesper Chirwa, 59, of Chipyola Compound in Lundazi District, for trafficking in 135 kilogrammes of cannabis.
“During a well-coordinated operation, officers recovered 90 kilogrammes of the illegal drugs concealed in a polythene sack hidden in the bedroom, and a further 45 kilogrammes concealed in a black plastic sack during a search of the suspect’s residence,” Mawere said.
Preliminary investigations indicate Chirwa, who has been on the Commission’s watch list, is believed to have been sourcing cannabis from Malawi for distribution within Lundazi and other parts of Zambia.
All suspects are in lawful custody and will appear in court soon, according to DEC.
Mawere said the arrests served as a clear warning to individuals involved in trafficking and distribution of illicit drugs, and that the Commission remained alert, proactive, and unwavering in the pursuit of offenders.
“DEC will continue to deploy intelligence-led operations to ensure that those who threaten public safety through drug trafficking are brought to justice,” she stated.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments