The Zambia Police Service in Lusaka has apprehended five male suspects in connection with an incident of political violence that occurred in John Howard Compound, Chawama, on June 5, 2026. Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi confirmed that cases of Aggravated Robbery, Malicious Damage to Property, Assault, and Unlawful Wounding have been recorded following the violent confrontation. The incident, which took place around 13:00 hours, involved a physical confrontation between groups of supporters belonging to the United Party for National Development (UPND) and the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance. Upon receiving a report at 13:10 hours, Chawama Police Station officers were immediately deployed to the scene to restore order and commence investigations.

Preliminary investigations indicate that a group associated with the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance allegedly attacked and ransacked the UPND Ward 3 Office in John Howard Compound. During the disturbance, various properties were damaged, and several items were reported stolen. Gabriel Mwale, 45, reported the theft of a laptop from the UPND Ward 3 Office, while Godfrey Chitalu, 51, detailed the damage to five office tables, chairs, and other office equipment, with an estimated damage cost of K30,000. Additionally, Lastone Lungu, 21, sustained back injuries after being hit by stones, and Christopher Mumba, 45, suffered injuries to his right hand, leading to an investigation into unlawful wounding.

The five suspects currently in police custody have been identified as Happy Siuluta, 39, Andrew Simukoko, 21, Paul Chileshe, 26, Charles Nyambe, 26, and Arnold Siuluta, 26. Chilabi stated that investigations are ongoing, and police have launched an operation to apprehend other individuals suspected of involvement in the violence and related offenses, including their accomplices. The Zambia Police Service has reiterated its firm stance of zero tolerance towards political violence, warning that all perpetrators, regardless of their political affiliation, will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

In related developments, Mr. Mwanza has expressed concern regarding the United Party for National Development, noting that while the party champions the fight against political violence, its members appear to be perpetuating the same vice. Speaking in an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Mwanza urged the UPND to counsel its youths to prevent them from being used as instruments of violence. He also appealed to young people to resist manipulation by politicians who seek to advance violence for their selfish gains. This comes after a separate incident where suspected UPND cadres allegedly attacked some Tonse Alliance members during a peaceful procession from a memorial service held in honour of former President Lungu.