The Lusaka Magistrate Court has acquitted former Zambia Air Force Commander, Eric Chimese, and Chita Lodges Limited Proprietor, James Chungu, of charges of money laundering and abuse of authority.
In this matter, Lieutenant General Chimese was accused of having abused his office when he engaged some ZAF employees to install tiles at his properties in Ibex Hill, Lusaka, an act deemed prejudicial to the interest of the Republic of Zambia.
In the second count, Lieutenant General Chimese was jointly charged with James Chungu on a charge of money laundering.
It was alleged that the duo between January 2012 and February 2019 at Lusaka jointly and whilst acting together concealed and disguised the rights with respect to ownership of nine flats, one single storey building, one guest wing and one semi-detached cottage situated on Farm number 2303/Q in Ibex Hill.
But when delivering judgement, Magistrate Nsunge Chanda acquitted the duo, saying the state failed to present evidence against the duo.
However, the state says it will appeal against the judgement.
By Darius Choonya