Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chief Editor
Published on 2024-03-14 00:50:04
Lusaka businessman Shadrick Kasanda has been accused by the Zambia Police Service of orchestrating the robbery of Egyptian national Adel Michael Botros, leading to the theft of $5 million in a shocking revelation. The alleged incident took place at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka on August 13, 2023, with Kasanda reportedly brandishing a pistol during the robbery.
Deputy Inspector of the Airport Division, Arnold Kawangu, detailed these allegations in an Affidavit – In Opposition submitted to the Lusaka High Court. This affidavit was part of the response to Kasanda’s application for habeas corpus, a legal remedy seeking relief from unlawful detention. Kawangu’s affidavit opposed Kasanda’s plea for habeas corpus, stating that his detention was in line with charges of aggravated robbery in connection to the purported theft from the Egyptian national. The police officer also mentioned that Kasanda’s case file had been sent to the National Prosecutions Authority for review and potential directives on prosecution.
Kasanda’s move to seek habeas corpus intervention came after he claimed to be unjustly detained on charges of aggravated robbery without being promptly brought before a court of law. These charges stemmed from the events on August 13, 2023, when eleven individuals, including Egyptian and Zambian nationals, were arrested and charged with espionage under Zambia’s State Security Act. This followed their alleged involvement in a Gold Scam investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).
One of the prominent figures among those arrested was Robson Moonga, the Commanding Officer of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) Police. Moonga, along with five Zambian nationals including Shadreck Kasanda, Jim Belemu, Patrick Kawanu (a pilot), Oswald Diangamo, and Francis Mateyo, faced serious accusations. Additionally, five Egyptian nationals, including Michael Botros, were also part of the group facing charges.
During the DEC’s operation, a significant amount of evidence was seized from an aircraft at the airport, including 602 pieces of suspected fake gold weighing 127.2 kilograms, weapons, and $5 million in cash. The state decided to drop the charges against five Egyptians and one Zambian involved in the alleged syndicate.
Shadrick Kasanda, a key suspect in the airport gold scam, was denied bail in another case related to the disposal of property believed to be proceeds of a crime. The Lusaka High Court denied him bail, stating that his release could prejudice the ongoing case. Additionally, Mr. Kasanda was involved in an espionage case where the Director of Public Prosecution issued a Certificate of Denial of Bail.
The decision to deny bail was made by three High Court Judges: Pixxie Yangailo, Ian Mabbolobbolo, and Vincent Siloka. Despite seeking bail for the proceeds of crime case, Kasanda’s application was invalidated due to the Certificate of Denial of Bail issued for his espionage case.
These legal complexities surrounding Shadrick Kasanda illustrate the gravity of the accusations against him. As the legal proceedings progress, stakeholders anticipate further developments to provide clarity on the case and determine the appropriate course of action.
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
