GOV’T CONDEMNS ASSAULT ON WILDLIFE POLICE OFFICERS

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Posted by admin on January 24, 2026 at 6:39 AM

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The Ministry of Tourism has strongly condemned the assault and obstruction of Wildlife Police Officers under the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) in Sikongo District, confirming the arrest of six individuals linked to the incident.

On January 13, 2026, Wildlife Police Officers, supported by Community Scouts, were deployed to the Upper West Zambezi Game Management Area (UWZ GMA) in Chumbula Chiefdom.

The operation followed credible intelligence on suspected illegal timber harvesting and wildlife poaching activities, allegedly involving armed individuals and foreign nationals.

While camped in the forest, the officers were confronted by a group of community members armed with spears, axes, machetes, knives, and clubs, who attempted to forcibly eject them.

One officer was assaulted, and there were attempts to disarm officers of their firearms, posing a serious threat to life and public safety.

Reinforcements were deployed, leading to the arrest of six suspects on January 14, 2026 Mr. Mulimi Kabula, Mr. Mutusi Mundia, Mr. Moses Simakando, Mr. Njamba Sitali, Mr. Kailu Nasilele and Mr. Namushi Namushi

Notably, one of the arrested individuals is an officer from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, identified as a ringleader.

The suspects have been charged with Assaulting a public officer (Section 250 of the Penal Code). Obstruction of a Wildlife Police Officer in lawful duties (Section 251 of the Penal Code, read with the Wildlife Act No. 14 of 2015) and the matter is currently before the Kalabo Magistrate Court, where proceedings have commenced.

Ministry of Tourism Principal Public Relations Officer Nelly Banda stressed that no torture, inhuman, or degrading treatment was meted out to the suspects.

All individuals were held in good health, medically examined, and accorded their constitutional rights.

The Ministry reiterated that Wildlife Police Officers are professionally trained, operate under strict rules of engagement, and uphold human rights standards.

The Ministry warned against interfering with the lawful duties of Wildlife Police Officers, especially in protected areas, noting that such acts undermine conservation efforts and endanger lives.

It further cautioned against spreading false or misleading information, reminding the public that doing so constitutes an offence under Section 67 of the Penal Code.

The Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, 2021, when circulated via electronic or social media platforms.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Zambia’s wildlife and natural heritage, strengthening collaboration with law-abiding communities, and upholding the rule of law in the interest of sustainable tourism development.