Zambian Female Police Officer Promoted After Rejecting Bribe Worth Over RWF 72 Million
A female police officer serving in Zambia has been rewarded and promoted after courageously rejecting a large bribe offered by a suspected drug trafficker at an international airport.
The officer, Sergeant Ruth Nyambe, works at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, where she is responsible for airport security and screening passengers and luggage. She is widely known for her professionalism, integrity, and strong sense of duty.
Sergeant Ruth Nyambe who rejected the bribe worth over $50.000
According to security sources, Sergeant Nyambe was offered a bribe worth over RWF 72 million by a suspect attempting to smuggle illegal drugs through the airport. Despite the huge amount of money, she firmly refused and immediately reported the incident to the relevant authorities.
Further investigations revealed that the suspect was later found in possession of more than RWF 2 billion in cash as well as gold stones. The suspect was reportedly traveling from Lusaka to an undisclosed destination.
Sources indicate that the suspect initially attempted to bribe Nyambe with USD 5,000, and upon reaching the airport, increased the offer dramatically to USD 50,000,000 in an effort to secure his release. Nyambe remained resolute and did not accept the bribe.
After rejecting the offer, Sergeant Nyambe alerted the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), which pursued the case and ensured that the suspect’s file was submitted to court for prosecution.
In recognition of her bravery and integrity, Nyambe was promoted in rank and awarded an official commendation during the Integrity Committee Chief Executive Officer’s Forum 2025, held on December 24, 2025.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Zambia also honored her actions. Daphne Chabu, Director of the ACC, praised Sergeant Nyambe for her dedication and commitment to fighting corruption, describing her as a role model for public servants and law enforcement officers across the country.
