Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 20th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has intensified its fight against illegal drug cultivation, dismantling cannabis farming operations through targeted investigations in Zambia’s North-Western and Northern Provinces. The latest enforcement actions have led to multiple arrests and significant seizures of illicit cannabis plants.
In Solwezi District, DEC officers apprehended Nelson Masamo, a 32-year-old peasant farmer, for the unlawful cultivation of 1.03 tonnes of cannabis plants.
Additionally, Ezinani Mwangama, 61, also of Solwezi, was arrested for cultivating 665 kilograms of cannabis. In a separate operation, DEC officers arrested Justin Muchindu (20) and Pythias Kaloza (31) in Mukuba area for the unlawful cultivation of 138.2 kilograms of cannabis plants.
In Luwingu District, DEC conducted a series of successful raids, resulting in the seizure of 951 kilograms of cannabis plants. The following individuals were apprehended in connection with these illegal farming activities:
John Bwalya (33) – 309 kg of cannabis cultivated in Chinika village.
Sydney Kabwe (46) – 242 kg cultivated in Chipampa village.
Edward Mukuka (37) – 218 kg cultivated in Ndeke village.
Titus Sampa (33) – 182 kg cultivated in Chinika village.
Further enforcement action in Kasama District led to the arrest of Joshua Chileshe (26) and Francis Chileshe (23) for trafficking 554 sachets of high-grade cannabis weighing 1.3 kg, along with 171 grams of cannabis seeds.
All seized drugs have been secured as evidence, and the suspects remain in lawful custody awaiting court proceedings.
The DEC remains steadfast in executing its mandate professionally and upholding the law. The Commission expresses gratitude to stakeholders and the general public for their continued support and urges citizens to report any suspicious activities. By working together, law enforcement and the community can effectively prevent and combat drug-related crimes.
The Agency
