DEC and ZCSA Arrest Illegal Beverage Producers in Lusaka

The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) along with the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), conducted a joint operation involving the Immigration Department, the National Anti-Terrorism Centre (NAC), and the Zambia Police. The investigation led to the arrest of five individuals from Precision Royal Beverages Ltd for illegal production and supply of beverages, packaged water, and immigration-related offences.

The Compulsory Standard ZS 388: Bottled Water Specification regulates packaged water, ensuring minimum standards for manufacturing, production, packaging, and storage for human consumption. Precision Royal Beverages was operating without a ZCSA permit and did not possess the required production parameters, violating the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017. In addition to operating without the correct licenses, the company was packaging water in unsanitary conditions, putting the consumer in danger

The suspects arrested are Derrick Mukwemba, the company’s Finance and Administration Officer, Jonathan Mukwaya and Geoffrey Kayemba, both male Ugandan nationals, Mediotrice Habonimana, a female Burundian, and Sameal Tusubire Mwanza, a male Ugandan national with a Zambian National Registration card. They all lived in the company office in Barlastone, Lusaka West.

Seized items during the operation included 1610 cases of Royal Sachet Water, 955 cases of Royal Kombucha Fermented Tea, 349 cases of Royal Kombucha, and 48 cases of Royal Ginger Wine. Three vehicles were also seized, including a Mercedes Benz truck.

Derrick Mukwemba is currently in custody and will likely face charges including tax evasion and money laundering.

The ZCSA, DEC, and government agencies pledged to continue efforts to protect citizens' well-being and maintain product safety standards. They encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity in order to help combat crime.