Police probe election violence in Ndola, Kitwe

The Zambia Police Service has launched investigations into a series of politically related incidents in Ndola and Kitwe, including an alleged break-in at a United Party for National Development (UPND) office, violent clashes during campaign activities and suspected malicious damage to vehicles belonging to National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP). In a statement issued on Saturday, Zambia Police Service Public Relations Officer, Godfrey Chilabi, said the incidents occurred on July 23 and 24 as political campaigns intensified ahead of the August 13 General Election. In Ndola, Twapia Police Station received a report of a break-in and theft at the UPND secretariat offices at Twapia Old Market.

The report was made by Henry Kabwebwe, a UPND aspiring councillor for Twapia Ward, who alleged that unknown people forcibly entered the offices and stole two motorcycles and four bicycles. Police visited the scene and launched investigations, with the value of the stolen property yet to be established. “Police also monitored political activities involving the Tonse Alliance after the alliance notified authorities of its intention to hold presidential campaign rallies in Kafulafuta and Twapia,” Chilabi said.

However, some supporters allegedly conducted roadshows in Chifubu and Kawama townships without notifying the police as required. “When police officers moved in to ensure compliance with the law, some supporters became violent and threw stones at the officers,” Chilabi said. Police arrested 14 suspects in connection with the incident.

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In a separate case in Twapia Compound, 13 suspected UPND supporters were arrested and charged with idle and disorderly conduct. Chilabi said the suspects were detained, formally charged, paid admission of guilt fines and were later released in accordance with the law. Meanwhile, in Kitwe, police are investigating seven cases of malicious damage to property believed to be politically motivated.

The reported incidents involved vehicles belonging to, or being used by, officials and supporters of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP). Five of the incidents were reported at Sherbourne Hotel, while two others occurred along Boma Street and near Mukuba Mall.

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