OVER 13 ARRESTED IN CHINGOLA RIOT

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Posted by admin on November 10, 2025 at 8:17 AM

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More than 13 individuals have been arrested in connection with the riot and arson incident that disrupted President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to marketeers at Chiwempala Market in Chingola on Saturday, 8 November 2025, according to Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack J. Mwiimbu.

The President was addressing residents at Chiwempala Market, recently gutted by fire, when agitated individuals began looting shops and throwing stones.

Police intervened, but the mob turned violent, forcing the President’s evacuation to Chikola Secondary School grounds The mob followed the motorcade, stoned vehicles, and set ablaze a Zambia Police Toyota Land Cruiser.

Additional damage included Presidential tent, carpets, coffee table, and portrait, Portable toilet and private vehicle windscreens, Property belonging to Events Matters and Chrisai Company Limited

Minister Mwiimbu confirmed that over 13 suspects have been apprehended and will be charged in accordance with the law. He emphasized that security assessments suggest possible orchestration by unknown individuals, whose motives remain under investigation.

“We will not tolerate acts of lawlessness that endanger public safety,” Mwiimbu stated.

Mwiimbu commended President Hichilema for exercising restraint, directing security personnel not to open fire on the crowd despite provocation.

“This was a threat to the life of the President and an attempt to create anarchy,” he said. “The New Dawn Government is always available for dialogue.”