DEC Arrests 12 in Separate Drug Busts

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has arrested 12 people in separate intelligence-led operations targeting illicit drugs in Lusaka Province.

According to DEC Public Relations Officer Allan Tamba, 10 people have been arrested and charged following the seizure of 10.8 kilogrammes of cannabis during an operation at the Summer Reggae and Afro Music Festival in Chongwe District.

Mr Tamba says those arrested include 27-year-old Francis Habeenzu, 22-year-old Matildah Zulu and 26-year-old Hellen Banda, among others.

In a separate operation, the DEC says two 20-year-old female students, identified as Blessings Kaonga and Gift Kaonga, were arrested at a boarding house in New Kasama after allegedly being found with 26 cupcakes laced with 596 grammes of cannabis.

The Commission says the two students had been on its watch list, adding that all 12 suspects are in lawful custody awaiting court appearances.

Mr Tamba has also called on boarding house proprietors to be vigilant and report suspicious activities, saying collective action is needed to prevent drug-related crime and create safer communities.