DEC cracks down on drug trafficking

By MUBITA KATETE

THE Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has apprehended several individuals, including a Tanzanian, for trafficking in cannabis and cocaine.
According to the DEC, Kumuzinga Phiri, a 47-year-old female, was arrested at Chanida Border in the Eastern Province for trafficking in 105 balls of cannabis and loose cannabis weighing 28.5 kilograms.
In another operation, two men, David Zulu, aged 36 and Shadrach Mwanza, aged 44, were arrested in Nyimba for trafficking in 23 kilograms and 9.5 kilograms of dry loose cannabis, respectively.
And the commission says it has arrested Nomai Sitali, a 50-year-old man, and Astridah Musana, aged 44 in Kasempa for being in possession of 0.48 grams of suspected cocaine.
The DEC also apprehended Ally Omary Hassan, a 48-year-old Tanzanian for trafficking in 10.4 kilograms of high-grade cannabis concealed in stereo speakers aboard a bus travelling from South Africa.
Other arrests were made in Central Province and North-Western Province, with suspects found in possession of various quantities of cannabis and cocaine.
All suspects are in custody.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts to combat organised crime and ensure the effective enforcement of the law,” said Allan Tamba, the DEC Public Relations Officer.
“We are grateful to vigilant members of the public for their continued support,” said Mr Tamba.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard the nation from the adverse effects of organised crime.”