Zambia (Lundazi): The Magistrate Court of Lundazi has fined a resident of Lumezi man K120,000, or in default, face nine months simple imprisonment, for the offence of illegal entry into Lukusuzi National Park on Monday.
The resident, Bostone Zgambo, aged 60, of Chipapika Village in Zumwanda Chiefdom, appeared in the Magistrate Court of Lundazi, where the Court announced a fine for his illegal entry into National Park.
According to the reports, Zgambo entered Lukusuzi National Park on February 2 this year, jointly and while acting together with other unknown persons, with the view to mining Gold without an entry permit as required by law.
In return, the accused person asked for leniency from the Court, saying that he was sorry for his deeds and assured the Court that he would not repeat his mistake, considering his old age.
Magistrate Muyambango told the accused that his hands were tied up and fined him K120 000. In default, he was sentenced to nine months simple imprisonment with effect from February 5, 2024.
Lukusuzi National Park, of Zambia, is located in the eastern Luangwa Valley in Zambia, on the other side of the Luangwa River from the more famous South Luangwa National Park. Lukusuzi National Park is one of the most expensive National Parks in Sub-Sarahan Africa.
No official statement has come from the man’s side so far. According to reports, he is in deep shock as the amount is heavy to pay, and reports also indicated that he is not from a very good and rich family.
One of his friends said he only earns his hands to mouth, and this amount is heavier. The court should have considered his age, too, as he appealed to them, but unfortunately, they did not consider his age. Of course, we are human beings, so a mistake is obvious, but fine is not that obvious.