Kitwe | March 1, 2026
The Kitwe High Court has convicted and sentenced eight accused persons to 25 years’ imprisonment with hard labour for the offence of aggravated robbery, bringing to conclusion a matter arising from the theft of 361.20 kilograms of emeralds valued at K4,100,000.

Nine accused persons had stood jointly charged with one count of aggravated robbery contrary to Section 294(1) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. It was alleged that on October 7, 2018, at Lufwanyama District in Copperbelt Province, the accused persons, acting together and while armed with offensive weapons, stole emeralds belonging to Continental Mining Africa Company Limited.

The charge further stated that, in the course of the robbery, violence was used or threatened against a mine security guard in order to overcome resistance.

The accused first appeared before the High Court in Kitwe in June 2019 and pleaded not guilty. The matter proceeded to trial. Following the close of the prosecution’s case, all nine accused were placed on their defence.

After hearing the defence and considering the totality of the evidence, the Court adjourned the matter for judgment.

The Court delivered its decision, convicting eight of the accused and sentencing each to 25 years’ imprisonment with hard labour, effective from the date of arrest.
One accused person, John Chilengwa, was acquitted.

The matter was co-prosecuted by Ms. Mwangala Iris Mwala, Ms. Sarah Mvula Shawa and Mr. Noble Mutale on behalf of the State.
The National Prosecution Authority reiterates its commitment to the effective prosecution of serious offences, including crimes targeting the country’s mineral resources. The Authority remains steadfast in discharging its constitutional mandate to prosecute criminal matters impartially and without fear or favour.
While complex criminal proceedings may require time to conclude, today’s judgment underscores the principle that accountability follows due process, and that justice, though sometimes measured in years, is deliberate and resolute in its outcome.