STATE TAKES OVER PROPERTY OF FORMER PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU’S DAUGHTER CHIYESU
STATE TAKES OVER PROPERTY OF FORMER PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU’S DAUGHTER CHIYESU
JOINT PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DEC, NPA Scores in the Forfeiture of Chiyesu Lungu’s Property Deemed to Be Proceed of Crime
Lusaka, Wednesday 17th February, 2024.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), has successfully completed an investigation resulting in the forfeiture of properties belonging to Ms. Chiyesu Lungu, following the conclusion of the matter in the courts of Law.
The forfeited properties are a division of two farms with a high-cost house, four chicken runs, and three flats in Lusaka’s State Lodge area, properties worth K9,375,438.62, said to have been purchased and developed between 2013 and 2021.
In a judgment delivered yesterday, the court was on firm ground that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had successfully made out its case for non-conviction-based forfeiture of tainted property.
According to the investigations, it was revealed that the Account belonging to Ms Chiyesu Lungu had no significant transactions from the time it was opened until around mid-2018 when it started being used as a salary account as shown in the Bank Statement exhibited during court proceedings.
These assets, acquired through illicit means, will now be fortified by the state as part of the efforts to dismantle criminal networks and ensure justice is served.
The forfeiture of Chiyesu Lungu’s properties underscores the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies and the justice system to combatting money laundering and holding perpetrators accountable.
This action sends a clear message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, and those who engage in criminal behavior will face severe consequences.
We commend the diligent work of the investigators and prosecutors involved in this case, whose dedication and perseverance have led to this significant milestone in the fight against crime.
Their efforts reflect the tireless pursuit of justice and the protection of our communities from harm.
The NPA and DEC reaffirm their respective commitment to combating financial crimes and ensuring that those who engage in criminal activities do not profit from their actions. we will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute and recover assets obtained through illicit means, making it clear that crime should never be beneficial to criminals.
We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals involved in financial crimes. Together, we can strengthen our efforts to root out corruption, money laundering, and other illicit activities, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for all.
Issued by:
Nason Banda
Director General
Drug Enforcement Commission
Gilbert Phiri
Director of Public Prosecution
National Prosecutions Authority