ONE of Chipata Compound’s most feared criminals has been unsolicitedly sent to meet with his maker after years of terrorising the people of Lusaka.
Justine Ponga aged between 35 and 40, was known for various criminal activities such as aggravated robbery and murder and had been on the police’s most wanted list since 2019.
Police say they received a tip off about Ponga’s movements and tracked him to the SOS area in Matero, where he was heading toward Chunga Township with an accomplice.
When officers confronted them, the two tried to escape and tried to fire a shot at the officers.
In the exchange of gunfire, Ponga was shot twice by the anti robbery squad in the chest and back and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH).
The deceased criminal was armed with a loaded pistol that had its serial number erased.
However, his accomplice managed to escape and is now on the run.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga revealed that Ponga was part of a criminal gang involved in violent robberies targeting foreign nationals in Lusaka.
Hamoonga said the force is determined to rid Lusaka of violent crime.
“The body of the deceased is currently at the UTH mortuary awaiting formal identification and a postmortem examination. An inquiry file has been opened, and investigations into this matter are ongoing.”
“The Zambia Police Service remains committed to ensuring public safety and bringing all perpetrators of violent crimes to justice. We appeal to the public to provide any information that may assist in the apprehension of the remaining suspects,” said Hamoonga.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, November 16, 2024
