Zambia Police Condemn Destruction of Police Infrastructure & Mob Justice Amid Murder Investigation

January 14, 2025 – The Zambia Police Service has condemned recent acts of mob justice and the destruction of public infrastructure, following a violent incident at Mununga Police Post on January 14, 2025. The police service stated that such actions undermine the rule of law, compromise public safety, and endanger innocent lives.

In a statement, the police emphasized that public facilities, including police posts, exist to protect communities, and their destruction hinders the ability of authorities to respond effectively to criminal activities. Authorities reminded citizens that mob justice is both illegal and counterproductive, urging the public to rely on established legal processes to seek justice.

The events unfolded after a tragic murder was reported at Mununga Police Post. On January 13, 2025, F/Given Mumba, a 40-year-old woman from Chiseketi Village, reported her 44-year-old niece, Grace Kaoma, missing. Her family had been searching for her since the morning of January 12, when they received a call from Ms. Kaoma’s former husband, Derrick Mwale, who claimed she was dead and buried near her farming field.

Upon arriving at the scene, police discovered Ms. Kaoma’s body buried in a bush, showing signs of trauma, including injuries to her face and hands. Evidence suggested she had been assaulted with an unknown object. Police learned that Ms. Kaoma had been receiving threats from her ex-husband after their divorce, which led to Mwale’s arrest later that day.

However, early the following morning, a mob gathered at Mununga Police Post upon hearing of Mwale’s detention. The crowd stormed the facility, attacking officers, breaking into the cells, and severely damaging the police post. The mob forcibly removed Mwale and subjected him to brutal violence, causing significant injuries, including deep cuts to his head.

The situation was only brought under control after reinforcements arrived from Chienge Police Station. The suspect was rushed to a nearby clinic, where he remains in unstable condition.

The Zambia Police Service strongly condemned the attack and urged the public to allow law enforcement to carry out its investigations. Police reminded citizens that mob justice and the destruction of public property are serious offenses under Zambian law, punishable by imprisonment.

As investigations into the murder and mob attack continue, the Zambia Police Service appeals for calm, urging the community to cooperate with authorities in upholding the rule of law.

“The Zambia Police Service remains committed to ensuring justice is served and maintaining public safety,” said Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer.

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