Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Lusaka Province, working jointly with the Zambia Police Service, arrested 36 suspects during an operation conducted at the One Love Reggae Festival, popularly known as the “Jah Night Musical Concert,” held in the Silverest area of Chongwe District.
According to DEC Deputy Public Relations Officer Theresa Mawere, the suspects were arrested for trafficking in more than four kilogrammes of high-grade cannabis and other illicit drugs, contrary to Section 15 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021.
Ms. Mawere said officers discovered cannabis concealed in pre-packs and sachets during the operation.
She added that law enforcement officers also seized baked food products, including scones and cakes, which had been laced with high-grade cannabis and were allegedly intended for distribution to patrons attending the event.
“Additionally, officers confiscated several bottles of Benylin with Codeine, a controlled medicine commonly abused for recreational purposes,” Ms. Mawere said.
She warned against turning public entertainment events into centres for drug trafficking and abuse, stating that such activities pose serious threats to public health, safety and national security, especially among young people.
“The Commission will continue intensifying operations targeting drug-related criminal activities across the country,” she added.
She further stated that DEC remains committed to collaborating with other law enforcement agencies and members of the public in safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
