Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 21st January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has taken decisive action as part of its ongoing investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH).
In the latest development, the Commission has formally charged and arrested Francis Nsenje, a Ministry of Health employee, for multiple offences, including theft, fraudulent accounting and money laundering.
Francis Nsenje faces formal charges under the following provisions:
Theft by Servant: Section 278, as read with Section 265 of the Penal Code Act CAP 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
Fraudulent False Accounting: Section 326(b) of the Penal Code Act CAP 87.
Money Laundering: Section 7 of the Prohibition and Prevention of Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001, as amended by Act No. 44 of 2010.
The charges arise from Nsenje’s alleged activities between January 2023 and December 2024 in Lusaka District, where he is accused of embezzling over K4 million and USD 11,707.40 while serving as Project Manager for a Ministry of Health program.
Details of the Offences:
- Misappropriation of Funds:
Nsenje allegedly redirected K2,763,540.46 to his personal bank account by altering Electronic Fund Transfer Advice (EFTA) forms intended for Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) payments. - Fraudulent Loan Disbursements:
He is accused of authorizing K482,000.00 and K799,082.00 to Valvo Oil Investment Ltd, a company linked to his associates, under false pretenses. Disputes with Valvo Oil directors over interest rates led to further transfers to Paylid Credit Investment Limited, a firm owned by his other associates, for personal benefit. - Fictitious Service Payments:
A payment of USD 11,707.40 was allegedly made to Niyatu Credit Investment Limited, falsely claimed as payment for services rendered to the Ministry of Health.
To obscure the origins of the stolen funds, Nsenje reportedly laundered K4,344,622.46 by:
(1)Acquiring two farms located in Chongwe and Chibombo.
(2)Purchasing two motor vehicles.
(3)Undertaking extensive home improvements at his Lilayi residence.
The DEC has seized the properties and other assets linked to the case. Meanwhile, Nsenje has been released on police bond pending further judicial proceedings.
The Commission has expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely updates on the investigation.
Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the DEC to bolster efforts in combating corruption and financial crimes.
Video Credit: DEC
Drug Enforcement Commission
The Ministry Of Home Affairs and Internal Security
The Agency