THE Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has arrested and jointly charged two (2) Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Officials and two (2) other individuals for money laundering offenses.
According to a statement issued by DEC Assistant Public Relations Sydney Katonto,the suspects apprehended are Andrew Kamanga, the FAZ President, aged 57, residing in Lusaka’s Mimosa area and Reuben Kamanga, FAZ General Secretary, aged 52, residing in Lusaka’s Makeni area.
Katongo named the 3rd and 4th suspects as Madalitso Kamanga, aged 53, residing in Lusaka’s Woodlands Chalala, and Jairous Siame, aged 44, residing in Lusaka’s Mumbwa Road.
“These individuals have been jointly charged with several offenses including: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,” read the statement.
DEC investigations revealed that the suspects while acting together obtained K341, 902.00 from the Government of the Republic of Zambia under false pretenses.
The statement added that money was purportedly allocated as allowances for Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame to attend the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The DEC further said 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.
“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.”
However, investigations revealed that neither Madalitso Kamanga nor Jairous Siame held official or executive positions within the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).
Katongo said this fraudulent activity transpired between 1st January and 15th February 2024, coinciding with the dates of the Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast from 13th January to 11th February 2024.
The suspects are currently finalizing bond processes and will appear in court soon.
“The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) underscores 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,” the Statement read further.
Katongo said 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.
“The Commission will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in money laundering schemes, ensuring accountability and justice for all.”
