Seventeen Arrested Over Kalumbila Mob Killing as President Orders Justice

Zambia Police have arrested 17 suspects, including the alleged mastermind, in connection with the brutal mob killing of a 46-year-old woman in Kalumbila District's Kisasa area last Friday.

Eneless Hellen Kamutumbe, originally from Chingola, had travelled to Kisasa on a business trip when a 25-year-old man, Prince Ntambo, accused her at a local market of causing the disappearance of his private parts following physical contact. The accusation caused panic among members of the public, who quickly formed a mob and armed themselves with sticks, stones, planks and other objects, descending on the woman and beating her repeatedly.

Police officers who responded to the scene encountered a hostile crowd that threw stones and obstructed rescue efforts. Despite attempts to evacuate Kamutumbe, the mob continued the assault, ultimately resulting in her death. She was rushed to Wumi Mini Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi confirmed the arrests, saying investigations are ongoing and operations have been intensified, with more arrests expected. He noted that some suspects are believed to be hiding in the bushes, and a specialised task force has been constituted to handle the case.

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed shock at the killing and directed the Zambia Police Service and other security agencies to ensure all those responsible are held accountable. State House Chief Communication Specialist Clayson Hamasaka said that every individual responsible must be identified, arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law, and that there will be no impunity.

The President extended his condolences to the Kamutumbe family.