58 illegal immigrants arrested

Police and Immigration Officers in Serenje, Central Province have apprehended 58 undocumented Ethiopian illegal immigrants.

The immigrants  aged between 15 and 27 were intercepted today around 01 hours in a Lusaka bound containerised Volvo truck registration ALC 8826T.

Both Central Province Police Commissioner CHARITY MUNGANGA and Immigration Department Public Relations Officer, NAMATI NSHINKA have confirmed this to ZNBC News today.

Ms MUNGANGA said the illegal immigrants who were nabbed at the NDABALA check point, are believed to have been destined for South Africa.

Ms MUNGANGA said the truck was being driven by PAUL KALYATA 31, who together with his unknown co-driver, escaped leaving the truck on the road with the keys in the ignition.

She said that initial investigations have revealed that the containerised Volvo truck is specifically designed for ferrying prohibited immigrants and that it  had its door wielded from outside and an opening on top.

And, Mr. NSHINKA said that the Officers got a tip off from a concerned member of the Public.

He said the 58 Immigrants appear in good health and are detained at Serenje Police Station pending investigations.

The truck has been impounded.