$10,000 worth of used electronic products seized

Jan Africa Investment has been trafficking and selling used Television sets, car stereos, old computers, speakers and DVD players illegally imported from Japan.

Speaking shortly after the seizure and sealing off of the warehouse where the used electronic products where being stored and sold, ZEMA principal information and communication officer Irene Chipili has told journalists that the seizure has been effected in line with the Environmental Management Act.

Ms. Chipili says this is after ZEMA discovered that Jan African Investment had been trafficking in electronic products which are considered to be hazardous electronic waste under the Environmental Management Act.

She says the seized products have also been discovered to have an input voltage of 110 volts which is not compatible to Zambia’s standards of household electrical appliances of 230 to 250 volts.

Ms. Chipili has told journalists that to this effect ZEMA has begun legal action against Jan Africa Investment.

And Jan Africa Investments Director Shabbir Ramzane has argued that his company has authenticated papers for trading in used electronic products in country.

Ms. Ramzane says this is why his company is ready to face ZEMA in court now that its goods have been seized and legal action instituted against it.

Meanwhile ZABS which earlier issued a rejection notice to restrain Jan Africa investment from selling its products after it was discovered that they were electronic waste, has also reaffirmed its commitment of ensuring that products imported and sold on the Zambia market are of the required standards.

Spokesperson Lee Haamunyi has told journalists that ZABS will continue to intensify its inspections and ensure that any company found wanting is firmly dealt with.