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The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has intensified its fight against smuggling after intercepting two major consignments of illicit goods in separate operations, resulting in a combined revenue loss of over K3 million.
In a targeted operation in Kafue, ZRA enforcement officers intercepted a 40-foot container carrying a staggering 3,660 cases of smuggled alcoholic beverages. The consignment, which included popular brands such as Gordon Dry Gin, Jameson Whisky, Four Cousins, Amarula, Jack Daniels, and Tequila, was seized after the truck driver failed to present valid customs clearance documents.
ZRA Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala confirmed the development, stating that the intercepted goods were immediately transferred to Makeni Enforcement Centre in Lusaka for further verification and assessment. The authority estimates that the smuggled alcohol would have led to a revenue loss of approximately K2.8 million in unpaid taxes and duties.
Smuggled goods and illicit trade deprive the country of essential tax revenue needed for national development.
Second Operation Uncovers Smuggled Cooking Oil
Meanwhile, in a separate operation in Chongwe, ZRA officers seized another truck transporting 1,200 units of 20-litre buckets of smuggled cooking oil. The estimated revenue loss from the intercepted cooking oil stands at K300,000.
Crackdown on Smuggling Intensifies
These latest seizures are part of ZRA’s broader efforts to crack down on smuggling, particularly as authorities have noticed an increase in illicit trade in alcohol, cooking oil, and other high-demand commodities. The authority continues to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those violating customs laws are brought to book.
By Elfi Mwale Shampande
