Zambian authorities have apprehended a Tanzanian drug trafficker considered a major figure in cross-border narcotics operations, following raids in Lusaka, the Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission has revealed.
Ahmed Muharram was detained alongside other suspects during operations that uncovered large caches of cannabis and cough syrup containing codeine.
The DEC said these arrests were part of an ongoing effort to dismantle organised drug networks within Zambia and across its borders.
“The suspect is a known transnational drug trafficker,” the commission said, adding that the 40-year-old had been monitored for an extended period. Muharram has not made any statement regarding his arrest.
The crackdown began when authorities intercepted a lorry in Lusaka’s Lilayi area carrying 221.2 kilograms of cannabis. Subsequent searches extended to Muharram’s residence, where officers recovered another 1,159.6 kilograms of what the DEC described as “high-grade” cannabis, bringing the total seizure to 1,380.8 kilograms.
A Zambian national, believed to be assisting Muharram, was also arrested as part of the operation.
Zambian law classifies marijuana as a dangerous drug and its possession is illegal. Offenders can face fines or imprisonment. The country continues to battle drug abuse and trafficking, particularly involving cannabis and heroin.
The DEC also reported several other arrests during Tuesday’s operations: a Zambian caught trafficking 55 boxes of Benylin containing codeine in Lusaka; two Zambians with cannabis hidden in their vehicle; and two Burundian nationals in Chirundu transporting cannabis in separate vehicles.
Some drugs were concealed in spare tyres, gas compressors, or mixed with sugar, salt, and paint before being hidden in tins and buckets.
“All suspects have since been detained in lawful custody and will appear in court soon,” the DEC said.
The agency emphasized its determination to prevent Zambia from being used as either a destination or a transit point for illegal drugs.
