By Joseph Mapalo Kamanga
In a major crackdown on petroleum sector malpractice, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) have dismantled a sophisticated illegal fuel network operating under Manyanya Oils Limited in Nakonde District.
The joint operation, led by the Task Force on Fuel Smuggling and Illegal Fuel Vending, resulted in the arrest of three high-ranking officials from the registered Oil Marketing Company (OMC). Those apprehended include the company’s Director and main shareholder, Charles Sinkamba, 23; Site Supervisor Martha Nakamba, 28; and Board Member Carter Ngosa, 43.
The suspects are facing multiple charges, including the dumping of petroleum products and possession of non-conforming fuel. They are also accused of failing to make proper customs declarations and operating a vehicle with false registration marks.
During the intelligence-led sting, officers intercepted a tanker truck displaying Zambian plates (AJD 6372 and AIE 7102). A secondary search uncovered a foreign registration plate, T353 DUF, hidden inside the cabin, pointing to a deliberate attempt to mask the vehicle’s origin.
Investigations revealed that approximately 16,000 litres of fuel had already been discharged into Manyanya Oils’ underground tanks before the interception. Testing showed this fuel was over-marked at 206.1 percent. An additional 11,000 litres remaining in the tanker was found to be completely unmarked, a clear violation of national petroleum standards.The Task Force has warned that such illegal practices undermine fair competition and pose severe risks to public safety and the environment. While the three suspects await their court appearance, authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals linked to the syndicate.
Law enforcement has urged the public and industry players to remain vigilant and report any suspicious fuel-related activities to the authorities immediately.
©️Zambia Reports 7th May 2026