PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Over 3.5 Tonnes of Fresh Cannabis Seized, Several Apprehended for Unlawful Cultivation
Lusaka, Monday 18th March, 2024.
In a major operation, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Southern Province unearthed a colossal illegal cultivation site in Mungolo Village, Monze District.
The site contained fresh cannabis plants weighing 3.2 tonnes.
The suspects all of one house hold in Mungolo Village and believed to be the major suppliers in southern province have been identified as, M’Clever Mweemba and Kereson Mweemba.
The duo who were utilizing irrigation systems and applying fertilizer when growing the illicit substance are on the run, and a manhunt has been launched.
In another drug operation, DEC officers in North Western Province have apprehended a male suspect identified as Albert Kyebo, male aged 50 of Kyeebo village in Kalumbila District for illegal cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 325 Kilograms.
Meanwhile, in Northern Province, DEC has apprehended Two (2) suspects for illegal cultivation of cannabis plants weighing a combined total of 200 Kilograms.
The suspects involved in the illicit activity have been identified as;
Jennifer Namfukwe, Female aged 65 from Kawama Village in Senga Hill District, who was arrested for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 115 Kilograms.
Moses Simbuwa, male aged 43 who is jointly charged with Kackstone Simbuwa, male aged 45 both of Kawama Village in Senga Hill District for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis weighing 85 Kilograms.
All suspects have been charged and are awaiting court appearances.
The Commission continues to implement strategies aimed at cutting down the supply of illicit substances in our communities and further warns the-would-be offenders that the law prohibits the cultivation, possession, trafficking, or engaging in any illicit drug-related activities.
DEC will continue to collaborate with community members in ensuring that people and their families are protected from the wrath of Drug and alcohol abuse as well as crimes fueled by the illicit drug trade.
Issued by:
Julie Mukumwa
Assistant Public Relations Officer
Drug Enforcement Commission
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