Zambian Authorities Arrest Notorious Tanzanian Drug Kingpin in Major Bust

Zambian anti-narcotics agents have captured a high-profile Tanzanian drug trafficker in a significant intelligence operation in Lusaka, seizing over 1.3 tonnes of cannabis and quantities of codeine-based cough syrup.

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) announced on Tuesday the arrest of 40-year-old Ahmed Muharram, a transnational figure long on their watchlist. The operation began with the interception of a lorry in the Lilayi area, where 221.2 kg of cannabis was found concealed within the vehicle, including inside its wheels.

A subsequent raid on Muharram’s residence in the same neighborhood led to the discovery of an additional 1,159.6 kg of what officials classified as high-grade cannabis, bringing the total seizure linked to him to 1,380.8 kg.

“The suspect is a known transnational drug trafficker,” the DEC stated, noting the arrest resulted from sustained intelligence targeting cross-border organized crime networks. A Zambian national, suspected of being an accomplice, was also taken into custody.

In coordinated nationwide actions, the commission made several other arrests. These include a Zambian caught with 55 boxes of codeine-laced Benylin cough syrup in Lusaka, and two others detained for transporting concealed cannabis. Near the southern border in Chirundu, two Burundian nationals were arrested for allegedly hiding cannabis in spare tyres, gas compressors, and even mixing it with household items like sugar and paint.

Under Zambian law, marijuana is categorized as a dangerous drug, with trafficking offences carrying potential prison sentences. The country continues to confront challenges related to drug abuse and trafficking.

All Suspects remain in custody awaiting court proceedings. The DEC reiterated its commitment to preventing Zambia from being used as a transit point or market for illegal narcotics.