Former Kasama MP Kelvin Mutale Sampa Charged with Forgery and Counterfeit Currency
Kelvin Mutale Sampa, the former Member of Parliament for Kasama, faces serious legal troubles after being charged with multiple offences, including possession of tools for forgery and counterfeit currency. His arrest, alongside Martin Mabo, highlights ongoing concerns about financial fraud in Zambia.
Details of the Charges
According to Zambia Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Mr. Sampa and Mr. Mabo are accused of conspiring with unidentified individuals to defraud a Japanese national, Satoshi Sakamoto, out of USD 80,000. The pair allegedly claimed that the funds would facilitate the purchase of refined gold in Zambia.
In a significant development, Mr. Sampa was found in possession of 49 counterfeit USD 100 notes, totaling USD 4,900, which he attempted to pass off as genuine. Additionally, he had materials resembling special paper used in currency production, along with other implements for forgery. These items were reportedly intended for creating counterfeit currency.
Timeline of Alleged Offences
The fraudulent activities are believed to have occurred between June and September 2024 in Lusaka, raising alarms about the integrity of financial transactions in the region.
Police Response
Rae Hamoonga emphasized the police's commitment to protecting the public and maintaining the integrity of Zambia's financial systems. He urged citizens to remain vigilant during financial transactions and to report any suspicious activities to local authorities.
Conclusion
The case against Kelvin Mutale Sampa serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in financial dealings. As investigations continue, the public is encouraged to be cautious and informed about potential scams and fraudulent activities.