DPP’s orator Saonda arrested for alleged extortion

Ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) executive member George Saonda  who is also Director of Protocol in the Office of President and Cabinet has been arrested  for allegedly extorting money from South African business tycoon.

Chief Secretary George Mkondiwa on Saturday confirmed that Saonda has indeed been arrested.

“Yes I can confirm that Mr Saonda is indeed arrested and according to what court is saying, the issues are to do with court contempt,” said Mkondiwa.

Saonda of ‘Sesa, Joyce Sesa’ fame has not been in the public especially on the Presidential functions including at MBC innovation award on Friday.

Reports reaching Nyasa Times indicate that Saonda promised a South African investor with business once he put forward money equivalent to K152 million.

According to the reports, the business man gave about K152 million to Saonda on trust that at one time he would be awarded the business inform of tenders and other lucrative business

Other sources say Saonda arrest is also connected to business loans that he did way back.

Police were elusive to give information on reasons for arrest thereby giving room to speculations.