The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in North-Western Province has arrested two small-scale farmers for unlawful cultivation of cannabis weighing over 700 kilogrammes, contrary to the laws of Zambia.

DEC deputy public relations officer Kamufisa Manchishi disclosed in a statement that the duo had concealed the drugs in question in maize and potato fields and that they would soon appear in court.

“Daniel Mwemba, 51, a small-scale farmer of Shafulundu area in Solwezi has been arrested for unlawful cultivation of cannabis plants weighing 295 kilogrammes in the first count, while in the second count he has been jointly-charged with David Lewila, 47, of the same abode for unlawful cultivation of cannabis weighing 408 kilogrammes concealed in maize and potato fields respectively,” stated Manchishi.

“Meanwhile, the Commission in Luapula Province has arrested Bupe Ng’andwe, 42, a small-scale farmer of Paison Village for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 410Kg. Also arrested is Christopher Mwewa, 45, a small-scale farmer of Kolala Village in North-Western Province for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 115 kilogrammes inter-cropped with maize. All the suspects are in police custody and will appear in court soon.”