DEC Uncovers Suspected Counterfeit Fertiliser Operation, Seizes Over 700 Bags

The Drug Enforcement Commission has uncovered what it describes as an unauthorised operation producing suspected counterfeit fertiliser, with 739 bags of the product seized in Chibombo and Chongwe.

The DEC said the operation was uncovered in the 9 Miles and Meanwood Vorna Valley areas, where investigators also found raw materials and equipment allegedly used to manufacture and process farming requisites.

Four people, identified as agricultural consultant Iwa Siame, 40, and businessmen John Ngulube, 34, Fortune Kalima, 49, and Stan Penti, 45, have been arrested and charged.

According to the DEC, the suspects face charges of producing farming requisites at a non-registered plant, possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime, conspiracy to commit a felony and money laundering.

The Commission alleges that the four, together with other unidentified people, operated the facilities between January 2025 and September 19, 2026.

It further alleges that the group manufactured, compounded and processed farming inputs at premises that were not legally registered and used deceptive packaging and distribution methods.

The DEC said the suspects were also found in possession of materials and equipment allegedly derived from or used in the operation.

The suspected counterfeit fertiliser has since been seized, while the four suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear in court.

The Commission has urged farmers and other members of the public to exercise caution when buying fertiliser and other agricultural inputs, advising them to use legitimate suppliers and distributors.

The case comes at a critical point for farmers preparing for the agricultural season, making the authenticity and quality of farming inputs an important public concern.

The allegations against the four suspects have not been tested in court, and they remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty.