A 25-year-old man of Freedom “B” Compound in Monze has died after allegedly attempting to escape from lawful custody and falling into a drainage channel.
The deceased, identified as Kester Chaali, was apprehended on Friday, February 27, 2026, after he was allegedly found using an incomplete structure as a toilet.
According to reports, around 20:40 hours, Gideon Phiri, 39, a businessman of Manungu Compound, discovered the suspect defecating inside his unfinished house, a structure he claimed had previously been used for illicit activities.
The suspect was later taken to Chibuyu Police Post where he was detained.
Police say that on February 28, 2026, at about 07:05 hours, officers were processing his release when it was discovered that, aside from the offence related to defecating, the suspect had pending criminal matters requiring further detention.
At that point, he allegedly ran out of the police post premises. In the process, he fell into a drainage channel located near the main entrance of the police post.
Southern Province Police Commanding Officer, Moono Namalongo, confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect sustained a head injury after striking the concrete edge of the drainage channel.
He said the suspect collapsed and was later confirmed dead.
“Members of the public gathered at the scene, but officers restored calm and maintained order. The body of the deceased was collected and deposited at Monze Mission Hospital Mortuary awaiting postmortem examination,” he said.
Police investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm as the matter is being handled in accordance with the law.
©️ TV Yatu March 1, 2026.
