DEC remits over US$30 million of forfeited funds to Treasury

Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has disclosed that it has this year remitted to the treasury forfeited funds amounting to US$30,374,236.54 and K57,885,376.10 respectively, following its heightened anti- money laundering operations.

Speaking during the end of year media briefing, DEC Director General, Nason Banda revealed that the Commission seized a total of 274 motor vehicles in 2024, out of which 35 were forfeited to the State while 129 are still under investigation, with the rest of the cases still at various stages in the judicial process.

Mr. Banda further revealed that a total of 194 cases leading to seizures and forfeitures of real- estate properties were recorded.

“While some of these properties are awaiting valuation, others are in appeal processes and we await ultimate closure.”

“The Commission also investigated a total of 92 cases involving household, office and industrial equipment yet to be valued and fertilizer. The forfeited earth moving equipment has since been allocated to the Zambia National Service (ZNS),” Mr. Banda revealed.

He added that 2, 000 bags of Urea fertilizer seized in various operations has been allocated to the Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS) and ZNS for use in their farms.

Mr. Banda also stated that the Commission is currently managing investigations in 885 cumulative cases inclusive of backlog and current cases related to money launded crimes.

“During the period under review, the Commission received a total of 299 reports on money laundering related crimes.”

“Investigations were commenced in all the reports, representing 100% commencement of investigations. Consequently,” he said.

Mr. Banda noted that money laundering remains a significant national concern, particularly in the context of organized crime and the financing of illegal drug activities.

He commended the Treasury for the 100% disbursement of funds towards the 2024 Annual Budget and for granting DEC authority to open new stations as well as recruiting officers, thereby enhancing the Commission’s staffing levels.

Meanwhile, Mr. Banda revealed that the Commission identified a total of 130 cartels involved in local and international drug trafficking activities, of which 63 were dismantled, representing 48.5% cartel dismantling levels.