No Safe Haven for drug pushers


.... As DEC Targets Drug Syndicates Across Zambia
By Francis Maingaila

 Lusaka, Zambia24 - (July 3, 2025) - The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has arrested multiple suspects—including two Philippine nationals and several Zambians—during separate operations in Lusaka, Solwezi, and Livingstone, seizing large quantities of cannabis and crystal meth.

According to DEC Public Relations Officer Allan Tamba, the most significant bust occurred in Chifwema area of Kafue District, where officers uncovered a large-scale cannabis cultivation site. 


Two Zambians, Bornwell John Mulenga, 50, and Timothy Choolwe, 38, were arrested.

Mulenga faces charges for trafficking 86.9 kilogrammes of loose cannabis and cultivating an estimated 12 tonnes, while Choolwe was charged with trafficking 14 kilogrammes. 

Authorities suspect the drugs were being prepared for illegal export to countries with relaxed cannabis laws.

In Solwezi, Northwestern Province, DEC officers arrested two Philippine nationals—Ryan Balusong, 46, and Shyr John Pangan, 40—found with 8.1 grammes of crystal meth and drug paraphernalia. 



A Zambian, Patrick Chiwota, 38, believed to be their supplier, was also arrested.

In Livingstone, Southern Province, officers intercepted a vehicle carrying Eliud Ngombo, 25, and Manfred Sidamba Nyama, 30, after a failed escape that ended in a crash. 

Officers recovered 20 kilogrammes of cannabis from the vehicle and 14 more from the suspects' residence.

All suspects are in custody and expected to appear in court soon.

Tamba reiterated the Commission’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking:

“The Commission remains committed to ensuring a safe and drug-free Zambia by relentlessly pursuing traffickers and suppliers. We urge the public to report suspicious activities and help build a society free from drug abuse.”

The DEC continues to emphasize community involvement as a cornerstone of its national drug control strategy.

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