35 Ugandans, 11 Chinese, 33 others arrested in Lusaka joint operation targeting alleged cybercrime network (Video)

The joint team seized a large cache of equipment including 73 desktop computers, 6 laptops, 140 mobile phones, 5 Starlink kits, 2 external hard drives, 10 new SIM cards and 75 passports, according to the statement.

“During the operation, the joint team seized 73 desktop computers, six laptops, 140 mobile phones, five Starlink kits, two external hard drives, 10 new SIM cards and 75 passports,” reads the statement.

Security agencies also recovered K21,490, US$10,450 and assorted foreign currencies from the premises.

Preliminary investigations suggest the location was being used by a newly established and highly organized network suspected of conducting cyber-related criminal activities.

“The full nature, structure, scale and extent of the suspected criminal activity, including its possible links to other individuals or networks within and outside Zambia, remain under investigation,” authorities said.

The statement further indicated that investigators were examining possible human trafficking elements linked to the recruitment and treatment of some foreign nationals.

Preliminary information suggests that some individuals may have been recruited under deceptive circumstances, while the freedom of movement of some foreign nationals may have been restricted.

“Consequently, possible elements of human trafficking or exploitation cannot, at this stage, be ruled out,” the trio noted.

The Department of Immigration is verifying the immigration status of all foreign nationals apprehended and preliminary checks found that 6 of the Ugandan nationals were illegally staying in Zambia, with verification of the rest ongoing.

All 79 suspects remain in custody as investigations continue and the joint team said it was working to establish the masterminds behind the network and any other persons connected to it.

The joint team said further details would be provided as investigations progress and when appropriate.

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