LUSAKA, Zambia — The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has intensified its intelligence-led operations across Lusaka and Eastern Province, resulting in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs, including pethidine, crack cocaine, and 135 kilograms of cannabis.
According to a statement released by the Commission, the operations targeted suspected drug traffickers involved in the distribution of controlled substances within Zambia.
In one of the operations, DEC officers arrested a 48-year-old woman identified as Harriet Tembo of Kabwata Estates in Lusaka for allegedly trafficking in 158 ampoules of Pethidine, also known as Meperidine, a powerful opioid classified as a controlled drug.
The suspect was apprehended in Lusaka’s Central Business District while allegedly selling the narcotic substance. Authorities reportedly recovered 38 ampoules from her possession at the time of arrest.
A follow-up search at her residence led to the discovery of an additional 120 ampoules, bringing the total seizure to 158 ampoules.
In a separate intelligence-led operation, DEC officers arrested 23-year-old Kasongo Kasanga of Kabwata Flats for allegedly trafficking seven rocks of crack cocaine.
The Commission stated that the suspect was apprehended after investigators received intelligence linking him to the illegal drug trade.
Meanwhile, in Eastern Province, DEC arrested 59-year-old Jesper Chirwa of Chipyola Compound in Lundazi District for allegedly trafficking in 135 kilograms of cannabis.
During a search operation at the suspect’s residence, officers recovered 90 kilograms of cannabis concealed inside a polythene sack hidden in a bedroom. An additional 45 kilograms were discovered in a black plastic sack during the same operation.
Investigators believe Chirwa had been under surveillance and was allegedly sourcing cannabis from neighboring Malawi for distribution within Lundazi District and other parts of Zambia.
The Drug Enforcement Commission confirmed that all three suspects remain in lawful custody and are expected to appear before the courts soon.
DEC said the arrests demonstrate its continued commitment to combating drug trafficking and protecting public safety through intelligence-led enforcement operations.
The Commission further warned individuals involved in the trafficking and distribution of illicit drugs that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and determined to bring offenders to justice.
Officials emphasized that intelligence-driven operations will continue across the country to dismantle drug networks and curb the spread of illegal substances.
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