Renowned Zambian musician Jackson Chikonde, popularly known as Jamaika Zed, has pleaded not guilty to charges of trafficking over 80 grams of marijuana.
Chikonde appeared before the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court, where he denied the allegations. The musician was arrested last month by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) for allegedly trafficking in psychotropic substances.
According to the DEC, Chikonde was found with 43 sachets of cannabis weighing 84.65 grams and 13 bottles of codeine weighing 2.6 grams. His arrest followed the release of music videos that allegedly dared law enforcement agencies and encouraged the public to engage in activities contrary to national laws.
Chikonde faces one count of trafficking in psychotropic substances, specifically 84.65 grams of marijuana without lawful authority, allegedly committed on January 24, 2025.
The case has sparked widespread attention, with many in the music industry and beyond watching the developments closely.
