Zambia arrests two farmers over alleged K4,500 bribe to wildlife officer

Zambia’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has arrested and charged two farmers in Eastern Province over an alleged attempt to bribe a wildlife officer with K4,500 to secure the release of a relative from custody.

The suspects, identified as Malilo Banda, 30, also known as Adam Banda, and Raphael Muyayi, 24, were arrested in Lundazi District, the commission said in a statement issued on Saturday.

The two face two counts of corrupt practices with a public officer, contrary to Section 19(2), as read with Section 41 of the Anti-Corruption Act, Chapter 91 of the Laws of Zambia.

The commission said that between October 18 and October 25, the suspects allegedly offered K5,000 and paid K4,500 in cash to an investigations officer at the Department of National Parks and Wildlife.

“The money was allegedly offered as an inducement or reward, in order for him to corruptly facilitate the release of Pasukani Muyayi, of Njoka area under Nyaminga Game Management Area in Lumezi District, a family member to Mr Malilo Banda from lawful custody,” Joseph Mwenya, the commission’s Head of Corporate Communications, said.

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Mwenya said Pasukani Muyayi had been arrested in Njoka area for possessing a homemade hunting shotgun.

The matter involved the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, which is a public body, he said.

“The suspects have since been released on Bond and will appear in court soon,” Mwenya said.

The commission warned members of the public against offering money, gifts or other gratification to public officers to influence their official duties or secure favours, including the release of people from lawful custody.

It said such conduct was unlawful and undermined the rule of law and the integrity of public institutions.

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