By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka,
A Congolese national has been fined K20, 000 for unlawful return to Zambia contrary to Section 36(5) of the Immigration and Deportation Act.
Tshibang Katomb 33, was apprehended in Ndola on 13th March, 2026 after investigations revealed that he had previously been convicted for immigration-related offences and deported to the Democratic Republic of Congo through Sakania Border Control in July 2024.
Department of Immigration Chief Public Relations Officer, Namati Nshinka said further investigations established that Katomb had unlawfully re-entered Zambia despite his deportee status.
“The court convicted him and imposed a fine of K20,000 or, in default, six months imprisonment,” Mr. Nshinka said.
He further revealed that in Kabwe, the Magistrate Court fined 29 Ethiopian nationals K10, 000 or, in default, serve 12 months simple imprisonment for failure to appear before an Immigration Officer upon entry into Zambia and unlawful presence in the country.
“The individuals were apprehended by the Zambia Police in separate incidents in Chisamba District on 27th and 28th March, 2026 before being handed over to Immigration on 30th March, 2026 for further processing,” he explained .
Mr. Nshinka added that the 29 individuals remain detained at Kabwe Correctional Facility pending payment of fines and subsequent removal from the country.
Meanwhile, the Luanshya Immigration Office secured the conviction of a 28-year-old Tanzanian national, identified as Dimasi Ibaso Manyela.
According to Mr. Nshinka, the Tanzanian national was apprehended during routine immigration operations within Luanshya Town.
“Investigations established that he had entered Zambia unlawfully and was unlawfully staying in the country. A forged Immigration stamp was also found in his possession. He was subsequently charged with unlawful entry, unlawful stay, and being found in possession of a forged Immigration stamp,” he said.
He explained that following court proceedings, he was convicted and sentenced to 12 months imprisonment with hard labour without the option of a fine.
Mr. Nshinka reiterated the Department of Immigration’s commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s borders and ensuring strict adherence to immigration laws.
“We further commend the continued collaboration with other law enforcement agencies in combating illegal immigration and related offences,” he said.
