Task Force Cracks Down on Illegal Fuel Trade in Lusaka

A joint task force has uncovered a coordinated illegal fuel operation in Lusaka, seizing thousands of litres of petroleum products and arresting several suspects in a sweeping crackdown across the city.

The operation, led by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) alongside the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), targeted the siphoning, concealment and distribution of fuel through what officials describe as an organised illegal supply chain.

According to a joint statement issued to ZNBC News by ERB Public Relations Manager Namukolo Kasumpa and DEC Deputy Public Relations Officer Theresa Mawere, the first enforcement action took place in Lusaka's Industrial Area. There, officers discovered a hidden underground tunnel allegedly used to conceal around 4,500 litres of petroleum products. The fuel, stored in 40-litre containers, is believed to have been siphoned from tanker trucks.

The crackdown was later widened to the Kanyama, Zanimuone and Chifwema areas, where further seizures were made. Eight suspects have so far been arrested in connection with related fuel offences and remain in lawful custody, awaiting court appearances in the coming days.

In total, authorities recovered 6,480 litres of petroleum products across the affected areas of Lusaka.

The task force confirmed that investigations are still ongoing, and that other suspects linked to the discoveries remain at large. Officials have signalled their determination to dismantle the networks behind the illegal trade, warning that those involved in fuel smuggling and unlicensed vending will face the full force of the law.