By Mubukwanu Kaingu
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) says it will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in money laundering schemes and ensuring accountability and justice for all.
And DEC has arrested Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Andrew Kamanga along with three others for money laundering offences.
In a statement, DEC assistant public relations officer Sydney Katongo stated that Kamanga 57, of Lusaka’s Mimosa area has been jointly charged with three others who include Reuben Kamanga, the association General Secretary, 52, in Lusaka’s Makeni area and Madalitso Kamanga, 53 of Lusaka’s Woodlands Chalala, and Jairous Siame, 44, of Lusaka’s Mumbwa Road.
The quartet has been jointly charged with several offenses among them obtaining money by false pretense contrary to Section 309 of the Penal Code Cap 87 of the Laws of Zambia, obtaining pecuniary advantage by false pretense contrary to Section 309 (A) of the Penal Code and conspiracy to defraud contrary to section 313 of the Penal Code.
Katongo stated that DEC investigations revealed that the suspects while acting together obtained K341, 902.00 from the Government of the Republic of Zambia under false pretenses.
He stated that this money was purportedly allocated as allowances for Madalitso and Jairous to attend the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“The allowances were transferred into their personal accounts with each one (Madalitso and Jairous) getting K170, 951.00. Furthermore, the duo also obtained return tickets valued at K99,980.00,” stated Katongo.
According to DEC, it was discovered that the funds were disbursed to two individuals under the guise of being FAZ officials, necessitating their attendance with the advance party for AFCON.
He stated that investigations however, revealed that neither Madalitso nor Jairous held official or executive positions within FAZ.
Katongo stated that this fraudulent activity transpired between January 01 and February 14, 2024, coinciding with the dates of the Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
He stated that the suspects are currently finalising bond processes and would appear in court soon.
Katongo stated that DEC underscored its unwavering commitment to combating money laundering offenses within Zambia.
“The recent joint charges against Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) officials and associated individuals demonstrate the DEC’s dedication to upholding the law and preserving the integrity of financial systems. As an institution mandated to tackle financial crimes, the DEC reaffirms its stance against all forms of illicit activities, including those perpetrated under false pretenses,” Katongo stated. “The Commission will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in money laundering schemes, ensuring accountability and justice for all.”
