A joint operation by the Zambia Police and other institutions has resulted in the arrest of 139 people among them five women in Lusaka’s sprawling Chibolya compound.
The operation dubbed “Operation Maruda” comprised of Zambia Police Service, Drug Enforcement Commission, Department of Immigration and Zambia Revenue Authority.
Zambia Police Deputy Public Relations officer Danny Mwale said the operation was conducted between 01:00 hours and 06:00 hours in Chibolya.
Mr Mwale said among the 139 suspects, 12 were apprehended for Immigration related offences and these were believed to be illegal immigrants from Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
He said about 25 suspects were also apprehended for drug related offences in which various quantities of cannabis some of it believed to be grown locally, heroine, Diazepham and various medical products were seized.
“Also recovered are two motor vehicles which were loaded with various offensive weapons, break-in instruments and a Police uniform. Other items recovered include household goods such as television sets, bicycles and gensets all suspected to have been stolen,” Mr. Mwale said.
He said all suspects were in Police custody awaiting to be formally charged.
