Minister Urges Calm Amid Riots in Mumbwa

Jack Mwiimbu, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, has appealed for calm in Mumbwa admit unrest in the area.

The unrest followed what is believed to have been a ritualistic killing in Mumbwa. According to Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Danny Mwale, two men had been killed by an “irate mob during a riot” after information had circulated that another individual had been killed and their body mutilated.

Mwale identified the two men as prominent businessman Sikaonga Enerst and a Tanzanian man, David Mwakiyoma.

During his visit to Mumbwa, Mwiimbu announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the alleged ritual killings, and urged residents to let police carry out their work instead of taking the law into their own hands.

Amid the chaos and unrest various government buildings were targeted, including a veterinary centre. The minister urged citizens to refrain from targeting their anger at government and private property, and instead to consider the consequences of their actions on the well-being of other residents.

Police investigations into the Mumbwa deaths are ongoing.

Photo: Lusaka Times