CHIPATA – Police in Eastern Province have arrested a 27-year-old man after he was allegedly found in possession of suspected counterfeit Zambian currency amounting to K4,400.
The suspect, identified as John Lungu, is expected to appear in court to answer charges relating to the possession of suspected fake money.
Suspected Counterfeit Money Discovered at Filling Station
According to Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba, the incident was reported to Chipata Central Police Station on July 6, 2026, at around 10:30 p.m.
Police say the incident occurred about 15 minutes earlier at Oasis Filling Station in Chipata District.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Lungu allegedly attempted to circulate a suspected counterfeit K200 note, leading to his arrest.
Cashier Raised the Alarm
The matter reportedly came to light after a security guard purchased ice cubes from the Oasis Mini Mart using a K200 note that police say had allegedly been given to him by the suspect.
While processing the payment, the cashier noticed that the banknote appeared suspicious and immediately alerted a fuel attendant, Misael Zulu, 27, of Mchini Compound.
After examining the note, both employees suspected it was counterfeit.
The security guard was then asked to bring the person who had given him the money.
Police Recover K4,400 in Suspected Fake Notes
A short time later, the security guard returned with the suspect, who reportedly admitted ownership of the money.
Police say that when Lungu was asked to produce the cash he was carrying, he handed over several K200 notes.
Upon closer inspection, officers allegedly discovered that many of the notes were suspected to be counterfeit.
The recovered notes had a combined face value of K4,400.
Suspect Arrested
Following the discovery, police arrested Lungu and opened a criminal docket.
He remains in police custody and is expected to appear before the courts soon.
Investigations are continuing to establish the source of the suspected counterfeit currency and whether additional individuals may have been involved.
Police Warn Against Counterfeit Money
The Zambia Police Service has continued urging members of the public, businesses and traders to carefully examine banknotes before accepting cash payments.
Anyone who suspects they have received counterfeit currency is encouraged to report the matter to the nearest police station instead of attempting to use the money.
Authorities say vigilance from businesses and members of the public remains an important tool in combating the circulation of fake currency in Zambia.
