Indian Man Nabbed at Zambia Airport Smuggling Over $2 Million in Cash and Gold

Zambian customs officials announced Saturday that a 27-year-old Indian national was arrested while attempting to smuggle over $2.3 million in cash and gold worth $500,000 through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, the country’s main international gateway.

The suspect was en route to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, when he was intercepted by a multi-agency team, according to a statement from the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).

Authorities seized $2,320,000 in cash and seven suspected gold bars estimated at $500,000. Photographs released by local media showed stacks of $100 bills bound with rubber bands, hidden inside a black bag packed within a larger suitcase.

“Investigations are ongoing,” the DEC said, issuing a stern warning to those engaged in transnational organized crime: “The long arm of the law will catch up with them soon.”

Zambia, rich in natural resources like copper and gold, continues to struggle economically. According to the World Bank, more than 60% of its population lives in poverty.

The country has seen similar incidents in the past. In 2023, five Egyptians were arrested after authorities discovered $5.7 million in cash, 127 kilograms of gold, and weapons on board a private aircraft. Charges of espionage were later dropped and the individuals were released.

The current case underscores growing concerns around illegal financial flows and gold smuggling through southern Africa.

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Source: NDTV