By JULIUS PHIRI –

GOVERNMENT has commended the Zambia Police Service in Eastern Province for ensuring successful prosecution of illegal dealers in the Mukula tree species.
Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Chileshe Mulenga said in a press release yesterday that the Government was proud of the hardworking Police in the province for the success scored in the fight against the illegal and wanton harvest and trade in the Mukula tree species.
“On July 21, 2014 in Nyimba magistrates court, the Zambia Police Service, Eastern division successfully prosecuted those involved in the illegal trade of our precious Mukula tree contrary to the provision of the Laws of Zambia as provided for under the Environmental Management Act No.12 of 2011,”Dr Mulenga said.
He said among the positive outcomes of the landmark judgment were the seizure and forfeiture of the equipment and trucks to the state used in the illegal trade.
Dr Mulenga explained that the successful prosecution was cause for celebration because it marked a turning point in the fight against the wanton destruction of the forests and other natural resources.
He said it was sending the right message to those who were bent on destroying the natural resources and denying future generations an inheritance of a healthy and sustainable environment.
“This is a fight our country must win as we a have a duty to pass on a healthy and sustainable environment to the future generations,” he said.
Dr Mulenga said the landmark judgment was also a timely reminder that the majority of the police officers were patriotic and committed to their calling of putting the country first in all they do,” he said.
He also commended the members of the public who have responded positively to the cause of protecting the fragile environment by reporting those involved in the destruction of forests.
Dr Mulenga said the success of the country requires an enabling environment free from crime to enable people undertake legitimate business without fear of criminals and undue interference.