THE Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has clamped down on Coco Manufacturing Foods, arresting the company’s manager, Tang Xiao Pin, for refusing to halt operations after being ordered to stop production.
Acting on a tip-off, ZEMA enforcement officers found the factory still running at full capacity despite a previous shutdown notice issued for operating without the necessary environmental clearance under the Environmental Management Act of 2011.
Upon inspection, officers impounded a large consignment of products, among them include thousands of cases of soft drinks, bottled water, juice and biscuits produced after the ban was imposed.
The agency also seized four production lines and sealed off the plant.
According to ZEMA corporate affairs manager Ruth Kamwi, the company had earlier been fined K100,000 for operating without a decision letter and another K80,000 for continuing without a license, bringing the total penalty to K180,000.
“Coco Foods ignored every directive given to them. This arrest is meant to remind other firms that ZEMA regulations must be respected,” Kamwi said.
“The agency will not hesitate to take firm measures against institutions that endanger public safety and the environment through unlawful operations.”
ZEMA has since sealed off the factory and taken control of the seized products, while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the violations.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 30, 2025
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