The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and National Prosecution Authority ( NPA) has today announced the official takeover of former First Lady Esther Nyawa Lungu’s property located in Lusaka’s state lodge.
The development follows the successful application for the forfeiture of property made pursuant to the provisions of the forfeiture of proceeds of crime act number 19 of 2010 of laws of Zambia.
The Property No. 9334/1, 9334/2, 9334/3 ,9334/4 containing 15 double storey flats valued at K66 Million were today forfeited to the state by the Economic and Financial Crimes Court.
NPA Public Relations Officer, Chali Hambayi, disclosed this during a joint press statement with the DEC issued to the media this afternoon.
Ms Hambayi said the forfeiture is a clear indication that the investigative teams will not allow people to benefit from gaining property through illegal activities.
She mentioned that the team is determined to deprive people of their wrongdoing by taking over such properties and redirecting the assets towards lawful and beneficial purposes for society.
“Asset forfeiture is a crucial tool in our collective fight against crime and it sends a clear message that ill gotten gains will not be tolerated,” she said.
Ms Hambayi applauded the joint team of investigators from the Anti Money Laundering Investigation Unit (AMLU) DEC and the Judiciary for securing the forfeiture.
She stressed that their commitment to upholding the rule of law and holding criminals accountable is vital in safeguarding communities and promoting a fair and just society.
She reiterated that the asset forfeiture department at the NPA remains committed to combating financial crimes and ensuring that culprits do not benefit from their actions.
Ms Hambayi stated that the teams will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute and recover assets obtained illegally.
She further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any activities suspected to be financial crimes.
“Together we can strengthen our efforts to root out corruption, money laundering and other illicit activities ensuring a safer and prosperous future for all,” she said.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Court today ordered the forfeiture of the property constructed at a value of K41 Million deemed to be proceeds of crime, following Ms Lungus failure to produce evidence to prove otherwise.
