PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Release)
21/02/2026
STATEMENT ON THE TRENDING VIDEO ALLEGING SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN IN CHILULU COMPOUND
The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services has taken note of a trending video in which Ms. Rabecca Phiri alleges that her daughter and other girls in Chilulu Compound, Lusaka, were sexually abused by a juvenile from the same community.
According to the police report, Ms. Phiri and another parent, whose two-year-old child was also allegedly sexually abused, reported the matter to the police. Medical reports were issued, and the children were referred to Chipata Level One Hospital for examination. However, the medical findings were not consistent with the alleged circumstances.
As a result, the case was revised from defilement to indecent assault, leading to the arrest of the 12-year-old child suspect.
The child in conflict with law admited to one count involving one child but denied the other. This restricted the option of diversion, as diversion requires voluntary admission of the offence.
The matter was therefore taken to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) by the police en route to court on 2nd January 2026.
However, the case was returned to the police in reference to the Penal Code (Amendment) Act No. 13 of 2022, which repealed Section 14 on the age of criminal responsibility of a child.
The NPA instructed compliance with Section 58(1) relating to children in conflict with the law for possible diversion. Both families, however, declined to participate in the diversion process.
The Ministry therefore wishes to assure the public that the matter remains active and is being treated with the seriousness and urgency it deserves.
Through the Department of Social Welfare, the Ministry is working closely with the Child Protection Unit (CPU) of the Zambia Police Service to establish the facts and ensure that the matter is revisited so that due process is followed in accordance with the law.
The age of the alleged perpetrator will be confirmed through thorough investigations to guide the appropriate legal procedures, noting that the age of criminal responsibility in Zambia is 12 years.
All allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors, are handled with the utmost seriousness, sensitivity, and in strict accordance with the law, as the protection and welfare of the alleged victims remain our top priority.
The Ministry will also conduct social inquiries, assess the family and community environment, facilitate medical attention, and ensure the safety of the affected children.
Where sufficient evidence is established, our colleagues from the National Prosecution Authority will be re-engaged and the matter will be sent to court through the established child justice procedures.
The Ministry calls for calm and responsible public engagement as investigations continue, to ensure that justice is served, victims are supported, and appropriate rehabilitation measures are implemented to prevent future occurrences.
Issued by;
Glenda Nachinga
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Community Development and Social Services
