THE Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), in collaboration with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), has seized seven boxes containing 336 bottles of Benylin with Codeine syrup at Victoria Falls Border in Livingstone.

In a joint statement, DEC and ZRA disclosed that the consignment was discovered during a search conducted on a Shalom Truck which resulted in the arrest of two drivers.

“The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in collaboration with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) have seized a consignment of Benylin with Codeine syrup at Victoria Falls Border in Livingstone. The consignment was discovered during a search conducted on a Shalom Truck which was coming from South Africa and was being driven by Mate Mbomena, a male aged 37 and James Phiri, a male aged 48 both of Chawama Compound in Lusaka. Seven boxes containing 336 bottles of Benylin with codeine were discovered and seized together with the truck on which the drugs were being transported,” the statement read.

“The two drivers have since been charged and arrested for the offence of drug trafficking contrary to section 15 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021 of the Laws of Zambia, and illegal importation of narcotics contrary to section 16 of the same Act.”

ZRA and DEC warned those engaged in such illegal activities that they risked facing prosecution.

“As the public may be aware, the abuse of the said drug has been on the increase in many parts of the country and is contributing to the moral decay of people especially the youth. You may recall that barely a month ago, we announced the seizure of more than 10,400 bottles from the same border point. We therefore wish to advise all those that are engaging in similar offences to refrain from the vice or risk prosecution. The suspects are in Police custody and will appear in court soon,” read the statement.