LUSAKA - The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has destroyed more than 1.7 tonnes of illicit drugs seized in Lusaka Province as part of its continued efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
The destruction exercise was conducted in Chongwe District following the conclusion of court proceedings involving 381 suspects between January 1 and July 31, 2026.
According to DEC, the exercise was carried out in accordance with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021 under Operation Kufeza, an initiative targeting the unlawful cultivation, trafficking and abuse of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals.
The drugs destroyed included:
1.6 tonnes of dry cannabis
92.5 kilogrammes of cannabis plants
36.9 kilogrammes of khat (miraa)
1.84 kilogrammes of codeine
426.9 grammes of amphetamine
158 grammes of pethidine
102.8 grammes of cocaine
24.8 grammes of methamphetamine
Five grammes of heroin
0.47 grammes of diazepam
DEC said the destruction of the seized exhibits ensures the drugs do not find their way back into circulation while demonstrating the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations, investigations and successful prosecutions of drug-related offences.
The Commission warned that illicit drugs continue to pose a serious threat to public health, contribute to crime and undermine national development, particularly among young people.
DEC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening enforcement operations, enhancing collaboration with stakeholders and intensifying public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing drug trafficking and abuse across the country.
The Commission also appealed to members of the public to continue reporting suspected drug traffickers and criminal networks to help build safer and drug-free communities.