The Lusaka Magistrate Court has ruled that former Kasama Member of Parliament, Kelvin Sampa, has a case to answer in a matter where he stands accused of stealing $150,000 from two Japanese businessmen.
Mr. Sampa is facing four counts – three related to theft by agent and one for unlawful possession of forged banknotes. The charges arise from allegations that he misappropriated funds intended for gold transactions. The money was allegedly entrusted to him by Japanese nationals Kunihiro Fugushima and Satoshi Sakamoto.
According to court documents, Mr. Sampa is accused of stealing $70,000 from Mr. Fugushima and an additional $80,000 from Mr. Sakamoto—both amounts were reportedly handed over to him to facilitate gold purchases on their behalf.
When the matter came up for ruling, Magistrate Irene Wishimanga found that there is sufficient evidence for Mr. Sampa to be placed on his defence.
The former lawmaker has since indicated that he intends to call five witnesses to support his defence.
The court has set July 11, 2025, as the date for the commencement of defence proceedings.
