ARREST OF MUTALE MWANZA, AGED 37, FOR HARASSMENT UTILIZING MEANS OF ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION
November 21, 2024-The Zambia Police Service wishes to inform the public about the arrest of Ms. Mutale Melissa Mwanza, aged 37, in connection with a case of harassment utilizing electronic communication, contrary to Section 69 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021.
Brief facts of the matter are that on November 11, 2024, Ms. Daisy Mwansa Lufumpa, a resident of Flat 4, Reasons Estate, Chamba Valley, Lusaka, lodged a formal complaint with the police. She alleged that on November 8, 2024, Ms. Mutale Melissa Mwanza posted insulting and defamatory remarks about her on a Facebook page under the name “Mutale Mwanza.”
The content of the post falsely suggested that Ms. Lufumpa was engaged in illicit activities, accompanied by other libelous statements.
Upon receiving the report, police opened an inquiry and commenced investigations into the matter. This led to the apprehension of Ms. Mutale Melissa Mwanza, residing at Plot Number 1704, First Street, Ibex Hill, Lusaka, yesterday November 20, 2024.
Ms. Mwanza was formally interviewed, Warned and Cautioned, and later Charged and arrested for the offense of Harassment Utilizing Means of Electronic Communication under Section 69 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act.
Following standard procedure, she was detained and later granted Police Bond and is scheduled to appear before the court soon.
The Zambia Police Service wishes to remind members of the public to exercise caution, responsibility, and respect for others when using electronic communication platforms.
Harassment, including the dissemination of defamatory or abusive content, constitutes a serious offense under Zambian law and is punishable by law.
The Police remains committed to ensuring that electronic communication platforms are not used to infringe upon the rights and dignity of others. Members of the public are encouraged to report such violations to law enforcement authorities.
Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.
