The Zambia Police Service has confirmed the arrest of Lusaka businessman Harry Valden Findlay, aged 63, in connection with an alleged offence of espionage. The arrest took place on March 31, 2026, and Findlay is currently in custody as investigations continue. Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi stated that further details will be made available as the inquiry progresses. This high-profile arrest has drawn attention due to the circumstances surrounding the operation and the serious nature of the allegations. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and no formal charges have yet been filed in court.
According to initial reports, more than 15 unidentified men in six small vehicles stormed Findlay’s premises on Tuesday afternoon. Witnesses claim he was forcefully bundled into one of the vehicles in full view of his wife and children. The dramatic nature of the arrest raised immediate questions from neighbors and observers, highlighting the intensity of the police operation. The men were later identified as officers from the Central Investigations Division, who also confiscated Findlay’s laptop as part of the investigation. The operation was reportedly carried out with significant coordination, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations under inquiry.
Findlay was taken to the Force Headquarters, where he was questioned for several hours. Police officers reportedly accused him of funding Brian Mundubile, leader of the Tonse Alliance, an allegation Findlay denies. He maintains that he has not seen or communicated with Mundubile since 2024, contradicting claims made by investigators. This element of the investigation suggests that authorities are probing potential links between Findlay and political activities, although no concrete evidence has yet been presented publicly. The questioning at Force Headquarters reflects the meticulous nature of the police investigation into alleged espionage activities.
Later in the evening, Findlay was transferred to Kabwata Police Station, where officers formally recorded in the Occurrence Book that he is being investigated for espionage. The incident has sparked widespread interest, with citizens and media closely following updates. The case is notable for its high-profile subject, the nature of the allegations, and the method of arrest, which involved multiple officers and vehicles. Police have pledged to conduct the investigation thoroughly and transparently while safeguarding due process. Analysts note that the case could have implications for both security and business communities in Lusaka, depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
As the investigation unfolds, the Zambia Police Service continues to stress that more information will be released in due course. Findlay’s arrest underlines the seriousness with which authorities are treating alleged espionage cases. The ongoing inquiry will focus on clarifying his role, if any, in activities that may compromise national security. Observers anticipate that additional evidence, including digital records from the confiscated laptop, could play a key role in determining the direction of the investigation. The case remains under close scrutiny, with both legal and public interest continuing to grow as authorities work toward a resolution.