Kitwe, Zambia – Police in Kitwe have arrested and charged a 63-year-old businesswoman, Mary Bwalya, popularly known as Mama Chikamoneka, for allegedly publishing defamatory remarks in a video circulating on social media.
The arrest was confirmed by Copperbelt Province Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi, who stated that Ms. Bwalya has been charged under the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025 of the Laws of Zambia.
Complaint Lodged by UPND Trustee
According to police, Ms. Bwalya of House Number 603, Mukuba Natwange, was apprehended following a complaint lodged by UPND Kitwe District Trustee Martin Kafutubele, aged 58.
Mr. Kafutubele reported that he had been subjected to harassment, humiliation, and defamatory statements through a video that was widely shared on Facebook.
What Police Say Happened
Commissioner Yuyi explained that during the first week of April 2026, the complainant came across a Facebook video in which the suspect allegedly made remarks suggesting that Mr. Kafutubele had:
lost weight
was suffering
spent time moving around town with files
had no meaningful employment
Police say the complainant viewed the remarks as degrading and defamatory.
Suspect Denies Video Was About the Complainant
Commissioner Yuyi said Ms. Bwalya was summoned to the police station where she was interviewed and issued a warn and caution statement.
During the interview, Ms. Bwalya reportedly denied that the video was directed at Mr. Kafutubele, claiming the comments were aimed at another individual with the same name who is based in Kabwe.
However, police proceeded with the arrest after reviewing evidence which allegedly linked the remarks to the Kitwe-based complainant.
Released on Police Bond
Police further disclosed that Mama Chikamoneka has since been released on police bond, while investigations continue.
Commissioner Yuyi revealed that Ms. Bwalya’s mobile phone, believed to have been used to circulate the video, has been seized and will undergo forensic examination.
Investigations Ongoing
Police have maintained that the matter is still under investigation as they work to establish all facts surrounding the alleged defamatory content and its circulation.
This case has attracted public attention, with many Zambians closely following developments involving social media speech and enforcement of Zambia’s cyber laws.