139 people apprehended for various offences during ‘Operation Maruda ‘

Five ladies were among the over 100 people who were detained during the combined operation dubbed as “Operation Maruda” in Chibolya Township.

The procedure was carried out between 1:00 and 6:00.

According to a statement from police deputy spokesperson Danny Mwale, 12 of the 139 suspects were detained for crimes relating to immigration.

According to him, the 12 are thought to be illegal immigrants from Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“We had a Joint Operation in Chibolya Compound involving Zambia Police Service, Drug Enforcement Commission, Department of Immigration and Zambia Revenue Authority in which 139 people among them five women were apprehended for various offences,” he said.

According to Mr. Mwale, approximately 25 individuals were detained for drug-related offenses, and varied amounts of cannabis, including some that was allegedly cultivated locally, heroin, benzodiazepines, and other pharmaceuticals were seized.

He claimed that two cars that were filled with various offensive weapons, tools for breaking in, and a police uniform had also been found.

“Other items recovered include household goods such as television sets, bicycles and Gensets all suspected to have been stolen.

All suspects are detained in Police custody awaiting to be formally charged,” he said.