Police have arrested two suspects in connection with alleged theft following a fire that destroyed property at Buseko Market along Lumumba Road in Matero, Lusaka.
The suspects, aged 18 and 17, both from the Matero area, were allegedly found at the scene removing Bonanza gaming machines from one of the shops affected by the fire. Three Bonanza gaming machines were recovered from the two suspects at the scene, according to the Zambia Police Service.
The Buseko Market fire occurred on Sunday, August 30, 2026, with the blaze reportedly first noticed between 21:30 and 22:30 hours. Matero Police Station received a report from members of the public at around 00:30 hours on Monday, August 31.
According to preliminary information released by police, the fire started in a shop situated on the eastern side of Buseko Market, in an open section where wooden poles and planks are sold. The fire subsequently spread to an adjacent shop and other trading premises within the market.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a charcoal brazier which may have been left unattended could have contributed to the outbreak of the fire. However, police said investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident.
Looking for the latest sports odds and markets? Check them out here.
The fire destroyed property belonging to several traders, including planks, merchandise and other goods. The total value of the property destroyed has not yet been established, as some affected traders have not yet reported their losses.
Police said a detailed assessment will be conducted to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the Buseko Market fire.
The blaze was eventually extinguished by personnel from the Lusaka City Council Fire Brigade, Zambia National Service (ZNS), Zambia Air Force and TAZAMA.
Meanwhile, personnel from the Defence and Security Wings have been deployed to safeguard the market and prevent theft, vandalism and other criminal activities.
The Zambia Police Service has urged members of the public, particularly traders operating in markets and areas where charcoal braziers and other sources of fire are used, to exercise extreme caution.
Traders have further been advised to ensure that all sources of fire are completely extinguished before leaving their trading premises.
An Inquiry File has been opened, with investigations continuing to establish the cause of the fire, as well as the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.
The statement was issued on August 31, 2026, by Godfrey Chilabi, Public Relations Officer of the Zambia Police Service.
