Africa-Press – Zambia. POLICE in Central Province have finally charged five UPND members that were agitating for running Sacko Manganese Mine in Mkushi. Central Province police commissioner David Mukuka confirmed the arrest in an interview that the UPND members have been charged with one count of causing the breach of peace and another count of criminal libel.
Mukuka explained that the charge of criminal libel arises from the UPND members’ insinuating that first lady Mutinta Hichilema owns Sacko Manganese Mine in Mkushi.
“Following the arrest of five people in Mkushi who circulated a video accusing the first lady of owning Sacko Manganese Mine, the following suspects have been charged for the offence of conduct likely to cause the breach of peace; Evans Bwalya (aged 36) of Itala compound and a builder by profession, Didan Mwiinga (32) who is also a resident of Itala compound in Mkushi district and a businessman by profession. Others are Royan Dilamonu (44) of R compound in Mkushi district who is a businessman, Charles Mwansa (44) of Itala compound an electrician by profession and Frederick Bwalya (37) who is a businessman by profession,” he said.
Mukuka said the suspects have been released on police bond awaiting court appearance. “They were officially charged and arrested for two counts of conduct likely to cause the breach of peace and criminal libel contrary to Section 191 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia and will appear in court soon,” said Mukuka. After being arrested, the five suspects were ferried from Mkushi to Kapiri Mposhi district where they were detained before being released on bond.
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