A computer laboratory for Zambia’s police to facilitate investigations into cyber crimes has been provided by Zambia’s Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA).

Police inspector general Stella Libongani said Zambia police are collaborating with telecoms regulator ZICTA to investigate incidents of cyber crime that are said to be on the rise in the southern African nation.

Police in Zambia have said its specialised unit in charge of cyber crime investigations is currently pursuing the disappearance of over $4 million from several commercial banks in the country.

The police have not named the banks affected.

“ZICTA has provided a computer laboratory to facilitate investigations into acts of cyber crime through specialised unit of the Zambia police,” Libongani said.

Last week police warned members of the public to be wary as they conduct their transactions on Automated Teller machines (ATMs) following information that foreign cybercriminals were training Zambians in cyber crime.

The warning by the police comes just two months after the Bankers Association of Zambia warned of increased ATM theft in the country.

Zambia police have said foreigners working with local Zambians are suspected of being part of the criminal ring.

Libongani has refused to reveal whether any of the criminals have been arrested in connection with the theft of the $4 million.