Indian National Detained in Zambia for Smuggling Cash and Gold

A 27-year-old Indian man was detained in Zambia with over $2.32 million in cash and gold valued at nearly $500,000 just before his flight to Dubai. The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission seized the items, concealed among his luggage. This case underscores issues of transnational crime in a nation grappling with poverty and previous smuggling incidents.

A 27-year-old Indian national faced significant legal troubles after being detained at Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Zambia. Authorities halted his routine flight to Dubai upon discovering a substantial sum of $2.32 million (approximately ₹19.32 crore) in crisp $100 bills concealed within his luggage. Additionally, officials found seven gold pieces valued at nearly $500,000 (around ₹4.15 crore) hidden among his belongings.

The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) reported that the flight’s passengers were not allowed to proceed as they unearthed a large cache of cash and gold hidden deceptively within clothing items. Local media showcased vivid images depicting stacks of cash secured in black bags alongside the glimmering gold bars.

An inquiry has been initiated by the DEC, which emphasized its commitment to apprehending “transnational organised criminals.” Despite Zambia’s wealth in resources such as copper and gold, the nation contends with widespread poverty, making incidents of this nature particularly alarming and politically charged. Zambia’s history involves previous high-profile smuggling incidents, including a reported case from 2023 when five Egyptians were intercepted with 127 kg of gold and $5.7 million in cash.

Currently, the Indian individual confronts an uncertain future in custody, with no prospects for continuing his journey to Dubai amidst official investigations and interrogations.

The case of the Indian man detained in Zambia has highlighted significant concerns over transnational crime and smuggling in the region. The authorities have reinforced their determination to combat such illicit activities amid Zambia’s socioeconomic challenges. This incident adds to the ongoing narrative of high-profile smuggling incidents, drawing attention to broader political and economic implications.

Original Source: newskarnataka.com