LUSAKA - Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting national resources and ensuring accountability following the arrest and prosecution of six people, including former Copperbelt Province Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi, over the alleged theft and unlawful handling of copper cathodes recovered in Mufulira District.
The six suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged theft of 436 copper cathodes valued at US$448,596.
Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said the suspects are facing charges including theft by public servant, giving false information to a public officer, and receiving property suspected to have been stolen.
According to investigations, the copper cathodes were being transported from the Democratic Republic of Congo to South Africa when the consignment was diverted into Zambia.
The copper was subsequently recovered in the Mokambo area of Mufulira District between March 6 and March 9, 2026.
Investigations further established that after the copper was placed in police custody, it was allegedly released to a private individual through a fraudulent disposal process and later auctioned despite the lawful owner having already been identified.
Those jointly charged include police officers Patrick Muti and Boniface Nchimunya, Clerk of Court Obrian Chipunza, Magistrate Edward Banda, and businessman Daniel Makina.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said Government will continue dealing with all acts of criminality in accordance with the law.
Mr. Kawana said protecting national resources, public assets and private property remains a fundamental responsibility of Government.
In a statement, he said the copper cathode case demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening accountability, transparency and good governance by ensuring that allegations of wrongdoing are subjected to thorough investigations and appropriate legal processes.
“The law applies equally to all citizens and that no individual is above the law. Public trust in national institutions can only be sustained when accountability is upheld and when those entrusted with responsibilities are expected to act with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism,” Mr. Kawana said.
He further warned that Government will not tolerate theft, corruption, abuse of authority or conduct that undermines Zambia’s economic interests and public confidence in national institutions.
Mr. Kawana also cautioned individuals against engaging in criminal activities, saying law enforcement agencies will continue strengthening measures to detect, investigate and prosecute offences that threaten national development and the wellbeing of citizens.
The Permanent Secretary commended law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders for their efforts to safeguard Zambia’s resources and uphold the rule of law.
The six suspects remain subject to the legal process and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Source: Kalemba