Kitwe, Zambia – May 2026 – Police in Kitwe have launched investigations into a suspected murder case after a woman was found dead in an apartment, while her boyfriend was discovered unconscious with a deep cut on his wrist in Nkana East’s Mwaiseni Extension.
The deceased has been identified as Patricia Daka, while the man found unconscious is Emmanuel Kapili Mwaanga, believed to be her boyfriend.
Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing.
Cleaner Forces Entry, Discovers Blood and Bodies
According to police, the disturbing discovery was made after a cleaner at the apartments forced entry into Apartment No. 1 after repeated knocking went unanswered.
“On Sunday at around 08:00 hours, a cleaner at the apartments reported for work and went to Apartment No. 1. When she knocked on the door, no one responded,” Mr Yuyi said.
The cleaner reportedly opened the main door and was shocked to find blood on the floor leading to the bedroom, where the two were found.
Couple Was Last Seen Taking Pictures
Police revealed that the couple was last seen alive on Saturday morning.
“Brief facts of the matter are that the tenant, Emmanuel Kapili Mwaanga, has been staying in the said apartment with his girlfriend since August 2025. On Saturday, at 08:00 hours, the two were seen taking pictures. After that, they drove out heading into town,” Yuyi said.
The two were only discovered the following day.
Woman Found Naked and Face Down
When police officers arrived at the scene, they found Patricia Daka lying face down on the bed and naked.
Mr Yuyi said no visible physical injuries were observed on her body at the time of inspection, raising suspicion over the cause of her death.
Boyfriend Found Unconscious With Deep Wrist Cut
Police also found the boyfriend, Emmanuel Mwaanga, unconscious and bleeding heavily.
He was discovered with a deep wound on his left wrist.
“Mr Mwaanga was found unconscious with a deep wound on his left wrist and bleeding,” Yuyi stated.
HIV Discovery Allegedly Triggered Relationship Problems
Police further revealed that preliminary information suggests the couple may have recently had misunderstandings after Ms Daka allegedly discovered that her boyfriend was HIV positive.
Mr Yuyi stated that Ms Daka had reportedly been planning to leave Mwaanga after learning of his status.
Two Knives Recovered From Scene
Investigators recovered two knives from the apartment, which are believed to have been used in the incident.
Police say the knives are part of the evidence being examined as they work to establish what exactly happened.
Body Taken to Kitwe Teaching Hospital Mortuary
The body of Patricia Daka has since been deposited at the Kitwe Teaching Hospital mortuary, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Mwaanga is receiving treatment at the same hospital, and his condition is reported to be stable.
Investigations Ongoing
Copperbelt Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi said the matter is still under investigation and further details will be provided once investigations are concluded.
The incident has left residents of Nkana East shocked, with many calling for thorough investigations into what led to the tragic discovery.
