Zambian authorities have arrested Lusaka Catholic Archbishop Alick Banda over a Toyota Hilux linked to a wider investigation into Zambia Revenue Authority vehicles.
The Drug Enforcement Commission arrested Banda on September 28 after questioning him over the vehicle. Investigators allege the blue Toyota Hilux was reasonably suspected to have been unlawfully obtained from the ZRA.
Banda has denied the charge and was granted K80,000 bail by the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court. He later completed the bail conditions and was released after spending one night at Chimbokaila Correctional Facility.
Archbishop Banda Faces Vehicle Charge
The case centres on a blue Toyota Hilux registered as ALF 7734. According to the DEC, Banda allegedly possessed the vehicle between April 22, 2021, and December 27, 2023.
The commission says the vehicle forms part of an investigation involving about 22 ZRA vehicles allegedly disposed of improperly. Banda faces a charge of possessing property reasonably suspected to have been unlawfully obtained under Section 319 of Zambia’s Penal Code.
Banda appeared before Lusaka Resident Magistrate Mwandu Nakazwe and pleaded not guilty. The court subsequently granted him K80,000 bail in his own recognisance.
Court Sets Bail Conditions
The court ordered Banda to provide three working sureties, each bonded at K50,000. He was also required to surrender his travel documents while the case proceeds.
However, the bail process was not completed before the court closed on Monday. As a result, Banda spent the night at Chimbokaila before his lawyers completed the required formalities.
The archbishop was released the following afternoon after meeting the conditions. He has now returned to his duties as the case moves through the courts.
Church Calls for Due Process
The arrest has attracted attention from Catholic faithful and church leaders in Zambia. Supporters gathered for prayer and Mass as the legal proceedings unfolded.
The Council of Churches in Zambia has urged the public to respect the presumption of innocence. The body also called on church leaders to exercise caution when accepting gifts linked to political figures.
Meanwhile, the church has called for fairness and due process as the investigation continues. Banda remains presumed innocent unless a court determines otherwise.
Banda’s Political Links Under Scrutiny
The case has also drawn attention because Banda has previously been vocal on political issues. His public political engagements have made him a prominent figure beyond the Catholic Church.
However, the current charge concerns the alleged possession of the Toyota Hilux. Investigators have not established Banda’s guilt, and he has denied the allegation.
The case is expected to return to court as prosecutors and investigators continue with the legal process. Trial proceedings are scheduled to begin in November, according to reports from Zambia.
