Lusaka man’s “blessings” attracts DEC attention, leading to trail of offences

MARTIN Mbaya, a 50-year-old Lusaka resident, may be trading in his flashy Land Cruiser for a police cell after the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) slapped him with a bouquet of charges.

Inspired by Yo Maps’ hit song “Blessings Follow Me,” Mbaya allegedly acquired a lifestyle that raised eyebrows. His Toyota Land Cruiser, with the flamboyant registration number BAP 7240, became a symbol of his newfound fortune.

However, instead of attracting more blessings, Mbaya’s lavish lifestyle attracted the DEC’s Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) on April 21, 2024.

They impounded the Land Cruiser, suspecting it was funded by illegal means.

That same day, the plot thickened as officers discovered Mbaya in possession of a 9mm Girsan pistol and a stockpile of ammunition, all unlicensed.

Apparently, Mbaya wasn’t just fond of fancy cars and firearms – In a move some might call forgery with a twist, Mbaya allegedly cooked up a fake firearm license (number 1228545) between January 2022 and April 2024.

He claimed it was issued by the Lusaka City Council, but when presented to DEC officers, the facade crumbled faster than a house of cards.

DEC’s public relations officer, Allan Tamba, confirmed the arrest and the charges against Mbaya which includes; possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime, possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and forging a document.

“Mbaya is expected to appear in court soon,” stated Tamba.

By Elesani Phiri

Kalemba June 18, 2024