Lusaka Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda has secured bail after appearing in court over a disputed Toyota Hilux.
The court granted him K80,000 bail in his own recognisance pending trial.
He must also surrender his passport and other travel documents under the bail conditions.
Authorities charged Banda under Section 319 of Zambia’s Penal Code, Chapter 87.
The charge concerns possession of property reasonably suspected of being unlawfully obtained.
Court Case Centres On Toyota Hilux
The case involves a blue Toyota Hilux registered as ALF 7734.
Investigators allege that Banda possessed the vehicle between April 22, 2021 and December 27, 2023.
The vehicle forms part of a wider investigation involving about 22 ZRA vehicles.
Authorities allege that the vehicles were improperly disposed of.
The wider investigation has already resulted in convictions involving some individuals.
Meanwhile, Banda’s court appearance followed a tense morning in Lusaka.
Police deployed officers in riot gear around the Cathedral of the Child Jesus.
The deployment came as Catholics gathered for a solidarity Mass supporting the Archbishop.
The gathering took place before Banda’s scheduled questioning by the Drug Enforcement Commission.
The DEC and Zambia Police had earlier warned against public mobilisation.
They said only lawyers and essential personnel could accompany Banda to the DEC offices.
“Members of the public are urged to refrain from engaging in any unlawful assembly or public procession,” DEC spokesperson Allan Tamba and police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said in a joint statement.
Catholic Bishops Call For Due Process
Banda’s latest appearance follows another DEC summons earlier this year.
In January, investigators recorded a warn and caution statement from him.
The authorities questioned him over the same vehicle matter.
The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops has since expressed support for Banda.
“We reaffirm our respect for Archbishop Banda’s pastoral ministry and dedication to the Catholic Church and the nation. We call for fairness, dignity and due process, urging all concerned to uphold these principles without prejudice or intimidation,” the ZCCB said.
Banda leads the Archdiocese of Lusaka and remains a prominent figure in Zambia.
He has also spoken publicly about governance and integrity.
The court will now proceed with the case against the Archbishop.
Authorities are expected to announce the trial dates in the coming days.
The post Archbishop Alick Banda Granted Bail After ZRA Vehicle Charge appeared first on iHarare News.
