The Zambia Police Service in Western Province has issued a stern warning to members of the public against the abuse of social media platforms, stating that anyone found spreading false information online will face firm action.
The warning follows a major development in a case involving the circulation of false information using electronic communication platforms in Kaoma District.
According to a statement issued by Western Province Police Commissioner Rae Hamoonga, the matter was reported at Kaoma Police Station on April 4, 2026 at 15:11 hours, and the alleged offence is believed to have occurred on April 3, 2026 between 15:00 and 16:00 hours, through a Facebook livestream.
Police revealed that the complainant, Mr. Vasco Antonio (51) of Kaoma ZESCO Compound and Village Kalengo under Chief Mutondo, reported a known individual identifying himself as a prophet, Mr. Renard R.M Kandinda, of Mulambwa Compound in Kaoma.
The suspect allegedly conducted a live broadcast on his Facebook page titled “RENARD RM KANDINDA”, where he falsely accused Mr. Antonio of being responsible for the illness of a local businessman identified as Mr. Liboma Justin.
During the livestream, the suspect further claimed that the businessman would die within two weeks, and warned of possible bloodshed and violent clashes between families after the anticipated death—statements which police said caused fear, anxiety and alarm within the community.
Following swift investigations, Police in Kaoma apprehended a suspect identified as Mr. Leonard Chadida (28), a businessman of Folkland Area, who is also reportedly associated with religious activities at Shiloh Embassy.
The suspect was arrested on April 5, 2026 at around 09:30 hours.
Police have since seized a mobile phone believed to have been used in the commission of the offence, and it will undergo forensic examination as investigations continue.
The suspect is currently undergoing the warn and caution process and will be placed in lawful custody.