Four Arrested in Codeine Syrup Smuggling Syndicate

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has apprehended four people in connection with the alleged illegal importation and distribution of 100 boxes of Benylin cough syrup containing codeine.

The suspects were apprehended during a controlled delivery operation jointly conducted by DEC officers in Kazungula and Livingstone districts of Southern Province.

In a statement issued today Wednesday 21st October 2026, DEC Public Relations Officer Allan Tamba identifies the suspects as 41 year old Chekani Phiri of Ten Miles in Chibombo District, Central Province, Sibeso Mubita, aged 39, Mwangelwa Keyana, aged 40, and 19 year old Aubrey Mubita, all from Livingstone District.

Mr Tamba says the 100 boxes of Benylin with codeine were allegedly concealed in a Shacman truck and its two trailers.

He says three of the suspects were apprehended after allegedly receiving 15 boxes from Phiri and transferring them into a Honda Fit motor vehicle.

DEC has since seized the truck, the Honda Fit and the drugs, while all four suspects have been detained to assist with further investigations.