ZRA raids non-compliant mines in Kasempa
By a Correspondent
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has raided non-compliant mines in Kasempa District of North-Western Province.
ZRA Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala confirmed the raid, saying it was aimed at curbing tax evasion and promoting compliance levels.
“The operation formed part of the Authority’s efforts to curb tax evasion, ensure compliance with tax laws, and safeguard government revenue. The mining companies raided during the exercise were identified as Katenge Resources Ltd, Ken Reliable, Sunion Investment, and Sino Octascene,” he said.
Nzala said some Chinese-owned mines were evading tax and not complying with the mining standards, hence putting the lives of Zambians at risk.
Ge said during the operation, cash amounting to over K3.7 million and US$3,091 was seized as undeclared income and taxes.
Nzala also said one of the directors of Sino Octascene, Huang Qingyi was arrested on site after attempting to bribe an officer.
“One of the directors of Sino Octascene, Mr. Huang Qingyi was arrested on site after attempting to bribe a ZRA officer with K10,000 by stashing the same into the officer’s pocket in an effort to obstruct the officer from carrying out his duties. The suspect was handed over to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) for further investigation and possible prosecution,” he said.
Nzala warned that the authority would not tolerate corruption or any form of crime by investors.
“We reiterate our zero-tolerance stance towards corruption and remain steadfast in enforcing tax compliance across all sectors of the economy, including the mining industry. We shall continue to conduct enforcement activities to protect national resources from illicit mining activities,” said Nzala.
