The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has arrested and jointly-charged two accounts assistants in Western Province for money laundering operations involving over K300,000.00.

In a statement, DEC public relations officer Theresa Katongo stated that Bwalya Kellys Chetetashi, 31, an accounts assistant of Mbuyuwana Stage 3 in Mongu District, was arrested and jointly-charged with Kalaluka Mubiana, 35, an accounts assistant of Mongu for forgery, uttering of false documents, theft by public servant and money laundering, contrary to the laws of Zambia.

Katongo disclosed that Chetetashi and Mubiana, together with other persons unknown, withdrew funds from the Kalabo District Education Board account under false pretences.

“Particulars of the offence are that on dates unknown, but between 1st January, 2018, and 13th December, 2018, jointly and whilst acting together with other persons unknown, with intent to defraud or deceive, Bwalya Kellys Chetetashi and Kalaluka Mubiana, both accounts assistants at Kalabo District Education Board Office, forged cheques and letters of authority to withdraw funds from the Kalabo District Education Board account purporting that the payments were authorized by the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) when in fact not,” Katongo stated.

“The duo stole a total of K387,412.00, which funds meant for orphans and vulnerable children, grants for schools in Kalabo and transportation of maize to various schools under the feeding programme.”

Katonga added that DEC seized various assets from the duo’s money laundering activities.

“The duo further engaged themselves in money laundering activities and acquired various properties, among them a motor vehicle, farm animals and household goods, which have since been seized by the Commission,” stated Katongo.

“The two suspects are on police bond and will appear in court soon.”