LUSAKA –
A 27-year-old Indian man was arrested at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka while attempting to smuggle more than US$2.8 million in cash and suspected gold, Zambian officials said on Saturday.
The suspect, en route to Dubai, was intercepted by a multi-agency task force. According to a statement by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), the man was found in possession of US$2.32 million in cash and seven pieces of suspected gold valued at US$500,000.
“This is a strong warning to those involved in transnational organised crimes — the long arm of the law will catch up with you,” said the DEC.
Photographs circulating in Zambian media showed bundles of US$100 bills tied with rubber bands, packed inside a black bag and concealed in a larger suitcase.
Repeat Offense in a Growing Trend
This arrest echoes a similar case in 2023 when five Egyptian nationals were detained after landing a private jet in Zambia with 127 kilograms of gold, weapons, and US$5.7 million in cash. Though charges of espionage were dropped, that case cast a spotlight on Zambia as a transit point for illicit goods.
Despite its mineral wealth, Zambia remains vulnerable to organised criminal activities. The World Bank estimates that over 60% of Zambians live in poverty, making the country a soft target for criminal networks.
Strategic but Vulnerable
Experts have warned that Zambia’s geographic location, bordering eight countries, makes it an attractive route for smugglers moving goods, weapons, and cash across southern Africa.
“These crimes undermine Zambia’s national security and economic credibility,” said a regional security analyst.
Investigations into the smuggling attempt are still ongoing. The identity of the arrested man has not been released, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests.
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