Tanzanian Drug Trafficker Ahmed Muharram Arrested in Zambia With Over 1.3 Tonnes of Cannabis

A high-profile drug bust in the Zambian capital has resulted in the arrest of 40-year-old Tanzanian national Ahmed Muharram, described by the Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) as a “notorious” transnational drug trafficker, officials announced this week.

Law enforcement officials carried out coordinated intelligence-led raids across Lusaka, intercepting a lorry in the Lilayi area and uncovering 221.2 kg of cannabis hidden inside the vehicle, including in its wheels. A subsequent search of Muharram’s residence in the same district unearthed an additional 1,159.6 kg of high-grade cannabis, bringing the total seizure linked to the suspect to 1,380.8 kg — more than 1.3 tonnes of the illicit drug.

In addition to cannabis, authorities found large quantities of codeine-laced cough syrup, a substance often misused or diverted for illegal distribution due to its psychoactive effects.

Muharram, who has been on the DEC’s watchlist for several years, was taken into custody along with a Zambian accomplice, who is believed to have helped facilitate the trafficking network. DEC officials said the arrest marked the culmination of sustained intelligence operations aimed at dismantling organised drug networks operating across Zambia’s borders.

The DEC highlighted that other arrests were also made during the anti-narcotics sweep, including individuals found with cannabis concealed in vehicle tyres and other clever improvised hiding spots, reflecting the increasingly sophisticated tactics used by drug traffickers in the region.

Under Zambian law, cannabis (marijuana) is classified as a dangerous drug, and trafficking, possession or distribution carry serious penalties, including significant fines and prison sentences. Authorities emphasised that all suspects are currently in lawful custody and will face prosecution once formal charges are filed.

Zambia has been under pressure to stem the flow of illegal drugs through its territory, which is both a destination and a transit route for narcotics moving between East and Southern Africa. Officials said that recent operations show a renewed commitment to counter drug trafficking and prevent organised criminal syndicates from exploiting weak enforcement.

Drug enforcement agents noted that the use of illicit substances such as codeine cough syrup has also become a growing concern, with multiple arrests connected to its diversion and trafficking reported nationwide.