In a significant move to combat illegal immigration, the Department of Immigration in Lusaka has apprehended 30 suspected illegal immigrants during coordinated raids on three prominent casinos late on February 15 and early on February 16, 2025. The casinos targeted in this operation were Golden Galaxy, Monte Carlo, and Gen Long.
Namati Nshinka, the Public Relations Officer for the Immigration Department, confirmed the details of the raids, highlighting that this initiative is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to tackle illegal immigration effectively. “The operations conducted at these casinos are part of a broader strategy to ensure that all individuals residing in Zambia are compliant with the nation’s immigration laws,” said Nshinka.
Among the 30 apprehended individuals, a diverse group was found including 11 Chinese nationals, eight Indian nationals, eight Cambodian nationals, one Filipino, one Kazakhstan national, and one Sri Lankan. The authorities emphasized the importance of regulating the immigration status of individuals in the country to maintain national security and legal compliance.
In a noteworthy aspect of the arrests, two individuals drew significant attention due to their specific immigration violations. Wang Gang, a Chinese national, was detained for having an expired employment permit, while Koay Somaly, a Cambodian national, was held after it was revealed that her application for an employment permit had been rejected. These cases underscore the Immigration Department’s commitment to enforcing laws that prevent individuals from overstaying or residing without the proper documentation.
“The remaining 28 individuals who were apprehended hold valid immigration permits. They have been requested to report to Immigration Headquarters for further immigration formalities,” Nshinka added. This step communicates the Department’s approach to ensuring that lawful residents are distinguished from those violating immigration norms.
In another development related to immigration enforcement, a combined team of Immigration and Police Officers in Mpika made further strides by apprehending two male Tanzanian nationals suspected of aiding and abetting seven undocumented Ethiopian nationals. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigration enforcement agencies as they work to address not only illegal residency but also the networks that facilitate such practices.
The recent operations reflect a heightened vigilance by the Zambian authorities to manage immigration effectively and ensure that foreign nationals in the country respect local laws. The implications of these raids reach beyond mere apprehensions; they are a testament to Zambia’s rigorous approach to maintaining immigration integrity, while safeguarding the nation’s borders.
As Zambia continues to develop into a regional hub for commerce and trade, the balance between welcoming foreign investments and the enforcement of legal immigration practices remains critical. Authorities have stressed the need for an ongoing dialogue with stakeholders within and outside the nation to enhance cooperation in matters of immigration.
Several community leaders and residents have expressed support for the Immigration Department’s efforts to maintain order through these operations. “While we welcome foreign investment and talent, it is essential that everyone complies with the laws of our country,” said a local business owner who wished to remain anonymous.
The Department of Immigration has invited the public to report any suspicious activities that might indicate illegal immigration or related offenses. Nshinka has reiterated that the fight against illegal immigration requires collaborative efforts from the entire community.
As this situation continues to evolve, the Department of Immigration promises to keep the public informed about future operations and the importance of compliance with immigration laws. The commitment to maintaining a lawful environment for all residents ensures that Zambia remains a safe and attractive destination for lawful immigrants and investments alike.
Wonder what’s attracting illegal immigration to Zambia amidst crippling and unattractive blackouts. I suppose cockroaches operate better in darkness!
30 ??? that’s like a grain of sand in a desert
Great strides and effort. However, there people are masquaring as immigration officials who come wearing immigration uniforms harassing shop owners who may or may not not be illegal immigrants.
I think your office should take note of this. They extort money from these foreign nationals a practice that undermines your efforts hightlighted in the article.
And if the individuals are illegal immigrants this only encourages the scurge as the immigrants should be deported.
Pls look into this
None of those on that list are Africans. Try doing the same in their countries. Still, I guess the approach should be a case by case approach whereby if the illegal chap has some potential to offer something to our country and be an otherwise law abiding type, maybe I would consider formalizing them. We need skill and value addition, also available among Zambians, so these guys would have to be exceptional just as other countries consider those they keep. Regarding prevention, I do not think locking them up or rounding them up prevents illegal immigration. This is a problem that can only be treated at points of entry. Once they are in the most we can do is trace them and punish them or legitimize them, although my preference would be more towards legitimizing fellow Africans.
In the other incident of Tanzanians aiding and abetting the Ethiopians, those Tanzanians definitely need to face the law.
The raided premises are the ones who don’t oil the immigration and police bosses.
Otherwise those who do the needful were fore-warned and escaped this fate. It typically depends on who you know, how connected you are and nothing to do with compliance.
Only 2 were illegal.
By now, they all have papers because they chekelelad…that is the sad state of the Christian nation called Zambia. They raided places where they know that there is money.
Kaili wema Christians now believe its not faith that you need to get to heaven. Ni kasaka ka ndalama. So tantamameni….mwilolesha ku mulu…na ma ten commandments poseni fye…leteni jamesoni kuno…
Give us a report on Police roadblocks Muntu
Imwe basiyeni. They are bringing forex into the country!