By Francis Chipalo
Munali parliamentary candidate Chrispin Chiinda says the wave of burglaries targeting female boarding houses near Levy Mwanawasa University is “complex but can be addressed,” after students reported cases of rape, theft, and fear during late-night break-ins.
Chiinda met victims this morning following a student protest sparked by the rampant burglaries. He said students described living in houses of 16 to 17 occupants where a single break-in leaves others “filled with fear,” making vulnerable students easy targets.
“Students shared that when a thief gains entry, the other students are filled with fear, leaving the vulnerable students at the mercy of the thieves, who have committed acts such as rape and theft of personal belongings, including phones,” Chiinda said.
Students told him police patrols only run until midnight, yet the incidents occur between 02:00 and 04:00, with one student disclosing that the burglaries were first reported in December last year and have since become more frequent.
Following the engagement, Chiinda visited Ben Mwiinga Police Post to report the students’ concerns.
Chiinda said the issues appear complex and urged police to engage directly with female students, provide counseling, and sensitize them on self-defense mechanisms.
“The students themselves are the first line of defense, and collaboration can help them protect each other,” he said. “It is essential for the students to have a contact number for the landlord or friends who can alert others to provide assistance from outside.”
Chiinda noted that thieves seem to have “ample time” to operate, pointing to a damaged grill door seen at one house.
“As leaders, it is our responsibility to enhance security and protect the students, but the students must also cooperate with the police and the community to ensure their own safety. Sometimes, students unknowingly provide information to individuals they meet,” Chiinda added.
He expressed confidence that the situation can be resolved and “PHI can be made a safe place again.”
