from ARNOLD MULENGA in Lusaka, Zambia
Zambia Bureau
LUSAKA, (CAJ News) – YET another case of mob justice has hit Zambia.
In the Nalolo district of the Western Province, police have rescued a 16-year-old who was accused by members of the community of allegedly stealing K200 (US$10,47).
Three suspects aged between 19 and 24 years have been arrested in connection with a case of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (OABH).
The victim was subjected to severe physical assault by individuals identified as Mukela Mufalo, Sitali Sitali and Mulemwa Wamundila.
Police report that the victim had spent the night at a friend’s residence.
During her stay, money amounting to K200 was reported missing, and suspicion fell on her.
In the course of questioning, the situation escalated as the suspects began to physically assault her while accusing her of theft. The commotion attracted members of the public, who joined in the assault, resulting in a mob attack.
Police officers responded to the distress call and managed to rescue the victim from the violent mob and take her into protective custody at a police station.
However, the mob turned hostile towards the officers, throwing stones and attempting to pursue the victim at the station. In order to restore order and disperse the agitated crowd, officers discharged warning shots.
The victim sustained injuries.
Rae Hamoonga, Regional Commissioner of Police, said, “The Zambia Police Service strongly condemns acts of mob justice and wishes to remind members of the public that taking the law into their own hands is a criminal offence.”
The suspects are set to appear in court soon.
– CAJ News