Zambia’s Archbishop Alick Banda warned of possible arrest after DEC questioning - nbc

Описание: Outspoken Archbishop of the Cosmopolitan Archdiocese of Lusaka, Zambia, Alick Banda today appeared before the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) for questioning but opted to remain silent.

Subsequently, the Drug Enforcement Commission's Anti-Money Laundering and Investigations Unit warned and cautioned him of a possible arrest over a charge of being found in possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime.

The 62-year-old clergy was summoned last week over a government vehicle that was found registered in his name.

His call-out note was heavily circulated on social media, sparking a debate of mixed feelings.

While his sympathisers including the Zambia Council of Catholic Bishops, termed the call-out as political persecution over his stance against the government.

Several Masses were held at the Cathedral of Child Jesus in Lusaka in solidarity with him, the latest being this morning before his scheduled appearance at the DEC.

Banda, together with the congregants and leaders of opposition parties, marched for about 5 kilometers from the cathedral to the DEC offices, where he was to be interviewed.

At the Drug Enforcement Commission's headquarters, there was tight security, and only the Bishop, three priests, and two lawyers were allowed in.

Slightly after an hour, the Bishop emerged from the interview and declined to utter a word.

Afterwards, a media representative of the Drug Enforcement Commission, Allan Tamba, addressed the media.

“The Drug Enforcement Commission, through its Anti-Money Laundering and Investigations Unit, has formally warned and cautioned the Archbishop of Lusaka, his Grace Dr. Alick Banda. This follows ongoing investigations into the alleged unlawful possession of a Toyota Hilux vehicle being property of the Zambia Revenue Authority. The public may wish to know that when granted an opportunity to explain about how he was found in possession of the said vehicle, Dr. Alick Banda chose to remain silent."

According to the Zambian law, this type of crime does not qualify for police bond or court bail, and conviction is up to five years in jail.

#NBCNews #nbcdigitalnews #nbcDSTV282 #nbcGOtv20 #nbcplusapp