NPA recovers over K777 million from high profile forfeiture cases
THE National Prosecutions Authority (NPA) says it has successfully recovered K777,751,595.42 in forfeiture from multiple high-profile cases over the past months.
In one of the eminent cases, the State, through the Director of Public Prosecutions, recovered US$24 million from former Konkola Copper Mine provisional liquidator Milingo Lungu.
In a statement issued by NPA public relations officer Chali Hambayi the prosecution authority commanded Egyptian national Micheal Adel Michel Botros involved in the gold gate scandal to surrender US$5,000,000 to the State.
This was in a case involving World Aviation Sinai International Mountains Limited, Ibis Air Pty Limited, and Micheal Adel Micheal Botros.
She said the chartered plane that was implicated in the gold scam case was released after the owners demanded its release before the Economic and Financial Crimes Court, upon providing documentary proof of ownership.
She said in a case involving Nigerian nationals, the DPP secured the forfeiture of US$1,813,093.42, €32,717.62(Euros), £8,139.20 (British Pounds) and K1,320 which was suspected to be proceeds of crime.
“These remarkable asset recoveries were made possible through the meticulous efforts of the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC). Their meticulous investigations and asset seizures laid the groundwork for legal actions leading to the subsequent forfeitures, underscoring the pivotal role of collaborative interagency law enforcement efforts,” Hambai said.
She indicated that the forfeitures represent a significant and unprecedented financial recovery for the state in demonstrating its commitment to fiscal prudence and accountability.
Hambayi said the resources will be redirected towards national development initiatives and contribute towards economic growth.
“This latest development underscores Zambia’s resolve to combat financial crimes and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in its justice system,” said Hambai.