Nine Ethiopians found hidden in trucks, 2 Zimbabwean drivers nabbed

 By MUBITA KATETE

 TWO Zimbabwean truck drivers have been apprehended for allegedly aiding and abetting the illegal entry of nine Ethiopians into Zambia after immigration officers intercepted them at the Kazungula Border in Southern Province.

The suspects, identified as 53-year-old Joel Muhenyu and 36-year-old Pfidzai Chipuriro, were intercepted on Saturday as they attempted to leave Zambia en route to South Africa.

According to the Immigration Department Zambia, officers discovered nine Ethiopian men aged between 20 and 33 concealed in hidden compartments within the chassis of two Volvo trucks during a routine operation.

Immigration Department Chief Public Relations Officer Namati Nshiinka said the Ethiopians were immediately apprehended for failing to present themselves before the nearest immigration officer while exiting the country, contrary to the Immigration and Deportation Act, Chapter 123 of the Laws of Zambia.

“Our officers discovered nine Ethiopians hidden in specially concealed compartments inside two trucks during an operation conducted at Kazungula Border. This was clearly an attempt to evade established immigration procedures,” said Mr. Nshiinka.

Mr. Nshiinka said the department has since launched further investigations aimed at uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the attempted illegal movement and determining the exact role played by the two drivers.

“We have instituted further investigations to establish the full extent of the drivers’ involvement and to ensure that all individuals involved in this illegal operation are held accountable in accordance with the law,” he said.

Ends.