LUSAKA – The Zambia Police Service has confirmed the arrest of a 48-year-old man, identified as Victor Chisanga, over alleged cyber offences involving abusive social media content targeting President Hakainde Hichilema and several other public officials.
According to a statement issued by Zambia Police Service Public Relations Officer Godfrey Chilabi, Chisanga, a resident of Chongwe District, was apprehended on July 2, 2026, in Chipata District, Eastern Province, during an intelligence-led operation.
Joint Security Operation
Police said the operation was conducted by a joint team comprising officers from the Zambia Police Service, the Anti-Cyber Crime Unit, and the Zambia Cyber Security Agency (ZCSA).
The suspect is alleged to have published and transmitted electronic content on social media between May and June 2026, on dates yet to be established.
Alleged Offensive Social Media Posts
According to police, the social media content was allegedly vulgar, indecent, and abusive.
The posts were reportedly directed at:
President Hakainde Hichilema, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force.
Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis.
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana.
Other unnamed individuals.
Charged Under Cyber Crimes Act
Police said Chisanga has been detained in connection with the offence of harassment and humiliation, contrary to Section 22 of the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.
Investigations into the matter are still ongoing, and the suspect remains in police custody.
Police Warn Against Misuse of Social Media
The Zambia Police Service has reminded the public that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, the right must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law.
Police noted that freedom of expression does not permit the publication or transmission of content that undermines public morality, public safety, or public health.
The service further urged members of the public to use social media responsibly and avoid posting content that is unlawful, abusive, or infringes on the rights, freedoms, and dignity of others.
