ARCHBISHOP BANDA WARNED AND CAUTIONED BY DEC

Archbishop Alick Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka has been warned and cautioned by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) following investigations into his alleged possession of a motor vehicle suspected to belong to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).

The Archbishop appeared before the DEC yesterday after being summoned last week. His appearance followed a solidarity Mass held at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus in Lusaka, after which he walked to the DEC offices accompanied by Catholic faithful and members of the public.

After the interrogation, Archbishop Banda returned to the cathedral on foot alongside his supporters, who had gathered outside the DEC premises during the questioning. Both the Archbishop and his legal team declined to comment on the matter.

Police blocked a planned solidarity march along Farle Road, prompting Catholic faithful and members of the public to chant for peace. More than 1,000 police officers were deployed to manage the situation amid heightened tension surrounding the interrogation.

In a statement, DEC Public Relations Manager Allan Tamba confirmed that Archbishop Banda was warned and cautioned in connection with the alleged possession of a Toyota Hilux motor vehicle, registration number ALF 7734, suspected to belong to the Zambia Revenue Authority.

Mr. Tamba said investigations covering the period between April 2021 and December 2023 indicate that the vehicle may have been unlawfully obtained. He explained that the matter is being handled by the Commission’s Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit and is anchored on Section 319(a) of the Penal Code, which relates to possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime.

The Drug Enforcement Commission further disclosed that when given an opportunity to explain how he came into possession of the vehicle, Archbishop Banda opted to remain silent.

Mr. Tamba said investigations are ongoing and that the nation will be informed of further developments at an appropriate time.