The Zambia Police Service has confirmed the arrest of nine suspects in connection with the alleged murder of a polling agent during the August 13 General Elections.
According to police, Lovemore Chishima, 57, who was serving as a polling agent, was allegedly assaulted at Kasamba Polling Station in Matero, Lusaka Province. The victim later died from injuries sustained during the attack.
The development was confirmed by Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba, who provided an update on several isolated incidents that occurred during and after the elections.
Police said the nine suspects linked to Chishima’s death have been taken into custody and investigations into the matter are continuing.
In a separate operation, police also arrested six male suspects who were allegedly found in possession of offensive weapons, 22 rounds of ammunition and a Toyota Land Cruiser.
Authorities have since disclosed that they are seeking Sean Tembo to assist with investigations into the matter.
Meanwhile, in Kalomo District in Southern Province, one suspect was arrested after four people were assaulted during an incident that left one victim with a gunshot wound. Police officers also recovered a firearm and ammunition believed to have been used in the attack.
In Northern Province, police in Kasama have launched investigations into an attack on the residence of Acting Permanent Secretary Beauty Undi-Phiri.
According to police, the attack was allegedly carried out by armed supporters of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP). One suspect has already been apprehended.
Despite the reported incidents, Inspector General Musamba said the overall conduct of the August 13 General Elections remained peaceful across most parts of the country.
However, he emphasized that all incidents of violence and unlawful conduct are being treated seriously.
Musamba warned against acts of incitement, unlawful activities and the spread of false information, urging members of the public to remain calm and allow the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to continue managing and announcing election results professionally.
He further appealed to citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid taking the law into their own hands as investigations continue.
The Zambia Police Service has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring that anyone found violating the law is brought to justice.
