By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
Department of Immigration in Zambia has removed 138 illegal immigrants from the country following a mass operation conducted from 28th February to 2nd March, 2026.
Those removed include 122 Burundians, six Rwandans, five Tanzanians, three Congolese nationals, and two Ugandans.
According to Immigration Chief Public Relations Officer, Namati Nshinka,
the majority were apprehended during a clean-up operation conducted in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, on 15th February, 2026, during which 110 individuals were detained for various immigration offences.
“Some of the individuals had paid court-imposed fines following convictions, while others were removed without prosecution,” he said.
In a related development, the Nakonde Immigration Office apprehended Burundian national for unlawful return to Zambia.
Mr. Nshinka revealed that Erick Irankunda, 26- was apprehended on 1st March, 2026.
“Irankunda was among the 138 individuals removed and was intercepted at a checkpoint within Nakonde District aboard a Lusaka-bound Peace Soldier Bus after unlawfully re-entering the country barely hours after his removal,” Mr. Nshinka stated.
The illegal immigrant is currently detained at Nakonde Police Station and has been formally charged with unlawful return.
Irankunda was initially apprehended on 15th February, 2026 during the Lusaka clean-up operation for unlawful entry and stay prior to his removal.
Unlawful return to Zambia after removal or deportation is a serious offence that attracts prosecution in accordance with the Immigration and Deportation Act Chapter 123 of the Laws of Zambia.
Authorities encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of illegal immigration to the nearest Immigration Office.
