Indian National Detained in Zambia with ₹23.5 Crore in Cash and Gold

A 27-year-old Indian man was detained at Zambia’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport following the discovery of $2.32 million in cash and seven gold pieces valued at approximately $500,000 in his luggage. The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission is investigating, warning that organized criminals will be prosecuted. Previous smuggling incidents in Zambia have attracted significant attention.

An Indian national, aged 27, was apprehended in Zambia while attempting to travel to Dubai. Authorities at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka detained him just prior to takeoff after they discovered $2.32 million (approximately ₹19.32 crore) in cash, packed in his suitcase, alongside seven gold pieces valued at nearly $500,000 (around ₹4.15 crore).

The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) reported that the suspect had hidden the cash and gold among everyday travel items within his luggage. Media images depicted a scene reminiscent of a suspense thriller, with bundles of cash and gold bars concealed under layers of clothing.

The DEC has initiated a thorough investigation into the case, warning that “transnational organised criminals” will face stringent legal action. Zambia, though rich in copper and gold resources, has a significant portion of its population living in poverty, making such smuggling incidents markedly sensitive and noteworthy.

This case is not unprecedented; in 2023, five Egyptians were detained in Lusaka with 127 kg of gold and $5.7 million in cash, which brought considerable attention to smuggling issues in the country. The charges of espionage against them were eventually dismissed, but the incident highlighted the scrutiny surrounding smuggling activities.

For the detained Indian man, there appears to be no immediate opportunity to continue his journey. Instead, he faces a series of official investigations and an unpredictable future in Lusaka, far removed from his aspirations of seeing the Dubai skyline.

In summary, the apprehension of the 27-year-old Indian man in Zambia underscores the challenges of transnational crime and the complexities surrounding resource-rich nations with significant poverty levels. The involvement of the DEC and prior notable smuggling incidents highlight the ongoing struggle against organized crime in the region, ensuring that perpetrators will be held accountable. The consequences for the detainee signify a profound departure from his intended travels, placing him under intense scrutiny in Zambian custody.

Original Source: newskarnataka.com