Suicide suspected as Zambian soldier dies from gunshot wound at Apollo Military Camp

A 27-year-old soldier stationed at Apollo Military Camp has died from a reportedly self-inflicted gunshot wound, police have said. The deceased, identified as Private Innocent Soko, was found at his residence within the military camp at around 7:00 a.m. on March 5.

Police spokesperson, Godfrey Chilabi, confirmed that officers from Matero Police Station received a report regarding the death from personnel at Apollo Military Camp. Preliminary investigations indicate that Soko had been on guard duty from 6:00 p.m. on March 4 to 6:00 a.m.

“After completing his duty, he returned to his residence, where it is alleged that he set fire to some of his clothes before shooting himself with a military-issued firearm,” Chilabi said. Police recovered the firearm at the scene and found Soko with a gunshot wound to the head. Chilabi said initial findings suggest the incident may be a suicide, but investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances.

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The body was later taken to University Teaching Hospital Mortuary pending a post-mortem examination and burial arrangements. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.

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