The State, through the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), and the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), wishes to inform the public that on 14th January 2025, the Subordinate Court of the First Class for the Lusaka District ordered the Directors of the National Housing Empowerment Fund (NHEF), and the company itself, to repay victims who paid money for plots which were never allocated to them in relation to transactions concerning the Riverdale Estate under the NHEF. In this regard, the Directors and the company have undertaken to repay all individuals who paid for plots but were not provided with the said plots, as ordered by the Court.
As part of the plea agreement reached with the State, the convicts are required to make the repayments within 30 days from the date of the Court Order. This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring justice for the victims and recovering funds lost in the scheme.
Before the convicts repay the victims, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), will conduct a verification exercise for all victims. The verification process is scheduled to commence on Monday, 10th February 2025, at the DEC offices and victims are required to appear in person with all relevant documents which include original documents and photocopies of National Registration Cards (NRCs), or Passports and proof of payments they made to the NHEF. Upon conclusion of the verification process, details on the repayment arrangements will be made available to affected individuals through relevant channels.
The DEC and the NPA remain committed to ensuring that justice is served and that all victims receive their due compensation. This agreement represents a significant milestone in holding the convicts accountable and providing restitution to those who were wronged.
The State urges all victims to cooperate fully during the verification process and to bring all necessary documentation to the DEC offices. Further updates on the verification schedule and the repayment process will be communicated through official channels.
For more information, victims and members of the public are encouraged to contact the DEC or the NPA through the following channels:
▪ DEC Hotline: (0955684343)
▪ NPA Hotline: (3737 on MTN and Airtel only)
The State wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we work to ensure a fair and just resolution for all parties.