Former RTSA officer arrested for allegedly masterminding criminal syndicate in Chingola

As security operations intensify against criminal elements in Chingola, the Zambia Police Service has arrested a retired Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) officer allegedly involved in masterminding an organized criminal syndicate.

Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer, Mwala Yuyi, speaking at a media briefing in Chingola on Wednesday, named the suspect as Phanwell Phiri.

“Phiri, who has been supplying firearms, was arrested together with Wesley Mwewa of Chingola’s Malemba area,” Yuyi explained.

The former RTSA employee was found in possession of several firearms, including air guns, rifles, and a Greener shotgun. The suspects were also discovered with an assortment of ammunition, including shotgun shells and air gun pellets.

The operation took place on the night of April 6, 2026, as part of ongoing investigations into an organized criminal syndicate.

Yuyi added that investigations suggested one of the firearms, a Smith & Wesson revolver, had previously been recovered from suspects in Solwezi District.

“The police are still investigating the matter and will provide further updates soon,” assured Yuyi.

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