A Zambian police officer, Ruth Nyambe, has been honoured with an Integrity Award by the Anti-Corruption Commission and promoted to the rank of Inspector after refusing a $50,000 bribe and reporting the incident, an action that led to the arrest of a major suspect and the seizure of millions of dollars in suspected illicit assets.
The incident occurred on February 5, 2025, at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, where then-Sergeant Nyambe was on duty. She intercepted a passenger who was attempting to travel to Dubai under circumstances that raised suspicion.
The suspect was later identified as 27-year-old Indian national Aamir Soeb Patel. According to authorities, he was found in possession of $2.32 million in cash and seven suspected gold bars with an estimated value of $500,000, items believed to be linked to illegal activity.
In an attempt to evade arrest, Patel allegedly offered Nyambe a bribe of $5,000, which she immediately rejected. He later increased the offer to $50,000, but Nyambe remained firm, refusing the money and choosing instead to follow due process.
Demonstrating rare courage and professionalism, Nyambe reported the matter to the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC). Her report led to the suspect’s arrest at the airport and the formal opening of an investigation.
The case has since progressed to court, with the National Prosecution Authority filing an application for non-conviction based forfeiture of the seized cash and gold bars, seeking to have the assets permanently taken by the state under Zambia’s laws against proceeds of crime.
In recognition of her actions, Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba promoted Nyambe from Sergeant to Inspector, citing her “integrity, outstanding performance, and refusal to accept bribes.” The Anti-Corruption Commission also presented her with an Integrity Award, praising her as a model of ethical conduct in public service.
Speaking through official channels, police authorities described Nyambe’s conduct as a powerful example of the standards expected within the Zambia Police Service, especially at a time when corruption remains a major challenge across the region.
Observers and members of the public have widely commended her bravery, noting that her decision not only protected the integrity of the service but also prevented a serious crime from going unchecked.
Nyambe’s case is now being held up as a symbol of the impact one officer’s honesty can have on national efforts to fight corruption, restore public trust, and strengthen the rule of law.
As the court process continues, her stand at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport remains a reminder that integrity, even in the face of life-changing temptation, still has a place in public service.
