Zambian authorities have arrested a high-profile Tanzanian drug trafficker during a major anti-narcotics operation in Lusaka, highlighting the country’s ongoing efforts to crack down on organised drug networks. The arrest forms part of a broader crackdown by the Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) targeting transnational drug trafficking.
The suspect, identified as Ahmed Muharram, 40, had long been under surveillance due to his alleged involvement in cross-border narcotics operations. During the raid, DEC officers recovered a substantial quantity of illegal substances, including large amounts of cannabis, concealed in vehicles and at the suspect’s residence.
The operation began when DEC operatives stopped a lorry in Lusaka’s Lilayi area, uncovering 221.2 kilograms of cannabis hidden inside the vehicle’s wheels. A subsequent search of Muharram’s home yielded an additional 1,159.6 kilograms of high-grade cannabis, bringing the total seizure connected to him to approximately 1,380.8 kilograms.
In addition to Muharram, a Zambian accomplice was also arrested. Further operations across the city led to the apprehension of other individuals, including a person found with boxes of codeine-containing cough syrup and others transporting cannabis concealed in vehicles. Outside Lusaka, two Burundian nationals were detained in Chirundu district for carrying cannabis hidden in spare tyres, gas compressors, and even mixed with everyday items such as paint, salt, and sugar, packed in tins and buckets.
The DEC has confirmed that all suspects are in lawful custody and will appear in court as part of ongoing legal proceedings. Officials stressed that Zambia remains committed to preventing the country from being used as a transit point or hub for illicit drug activities in the region.
The raid and arrests underscore Zambia’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to disrupting illegal networks and ensuring that those involved face the full force of the law.
Source: Thepressradio.com
