Police Dismiss False Claims of Suspect's Death in Custody

The Zambia Police Service has dismissed as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that a detained suspect, Patrick Mwansa, had died while in police custody.

In a statement issued on 21 August 2026, the police confirmed that Mr Mwansa is alive and in good health. His family has been visiting him regularly, with access granted in line with established procedures, the service said.

The police strongly condemned the circulation of unverified information, warning that such claims have the potential to cause unnecessary public panic and anxiety, as well as distress to the affected family and the wider community. They cautioned that spreading false reports of this nature is both irresponsible and damaging.

Members of the public, social media users and news bloggers were urged to refrain from sharing unverified information, and instead to rely solely on official communication from the Zambia Police Service for accurate and confirmed updates.

The service reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights, dignity, safety and welfare of all persons held in its custody, in accordance with the law and established procedures.

The statement was issued by Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Chipo Kaitisha.

The clarification comes amid heightened public sensitivity around individuals recently detained by security agencies, with the police stressing the importance of responsible communication to preserve calm and prevent the spread of misinformation.