DEC takes down Lusaka’s notorious drug lord

By MUBITA KATETE

IN a sweeping nationwide crackdown, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has arrested one of the country’s most elusive drug lords, Henry Shula Kasolo, marking a significant victory in the war against transnational drug trafficking.
Mr Kasolo, 53, a prominent Lusaka resident of the upscale Leopards Hill area, was captured on Thursday following months of intense surveillance.
Authorities seized 117 packs of high-grade compressed cannabis weighing 73.9 kilogrammes, which were hidden in four suitcases.
The operation also netted US$10, 200 and K6, 000 in suspected proceeds of crime, as well as a Toyota Hilux allegedly used in the trafficking scheme.
“This arrest is a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal drug syndicates operating both locally and internationally,” DEC Public Relations Officer Allan Tamba said in a press statement.
“Mr Kasolo has been on our radar for some time, and his apprehension sends a strong message that no one is beyond the reach of justice.”
In a dramatic twist during his arrest, Mr Kasolo attempted to bribe officers with K60, 000 in a failed bid to secure his release and that of his alleged accomplices – two Thai nationals identified as Phuwanat Hansongkram, 25, and Den Wangngae, 30.
The pair were found with Baht 24, 620, believed to be illicit proceeds.
DEC also confirmed that Mr Kasolo is linked to a 2024 case involving the attempted smuggling of 204.7 kilogrammes of cannabis disguised as catalytic powder through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, destined for Europe.
“Mr Kasolo was also recently deported from the United States where he was convicted on similar charges,” Mr Tamba added. “This highlights the global footprint of his criminal activities.”
Also arrested in connection with the same case was 60-year-old Humphrey Alick Chama, a Lusaka resident of New Kasama.
In a separate DEC-led operation in Lusaka’s Makeni area, 46-year-old Kenyan Maulid Hamud Idris was arrested for trafficking in 21.2 kilogrammes of Mirra (Khat), a stimulant commonly smuggled from East Africa.
In Livingstone, DEC officers arrested two men from Kazungula, Kasendema Musonda, 33, and Luke Ndimba, 29 for possession of 15.2 and 3.8 kilogrammes of compressed cannabis, respectively.
All suspects remain in custody pending court appearances.
Ends.