Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, has reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to ensuring that no illegal activities take place in holding cells nationwide.

She was responding to concerns raised by Independent Patriots for Change's (IPC) MP Vilho Ihemba regarding extortion, rape, and smuggling occurring in holding cells throughout the country.

The ministry has documented 17 cases of extortion, 24 cases of rape, and 11 cases of contraband smuggling into holding cells as of 2023.

Despite the newly recorded cases over the past few years, the minister said the regions are maintaining a proactive approach to manage cell searches and monitor police officials who may attempt to smuggle prohibited items into cells.