Two co-wives face court trial over alleged bribe attempt to free husband accused of child defilement

Two Lusaka co-wives have been called upon to defend themselves against allegations that they attempted to bribe a police officer to secure the release of their husband, who was at the time in custody over accusations of sexually abusing his 10-year-old biological daughter.

The duo appeared before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court, where they were found with a case to answer and subsequently placed on their defence after the prosecution closed its case.

One of the accused is the biological mother of the alleged victim and, according to prosecution evidence, allegedly agreed to have the State take custody of the child in exchange for her husband’s release.

She remains in detention after failing to meet bail conditions.

The two are expected to open their defence on February 10, 2026.

Delivering her ruling, Magistrate Anna Holland said she had carefully reviewed the evidence presented by the prosecution and was satisfied that the accused must respond to the charges.

“I have considered the evidence adduced by the State through the prosecution. I am satisfied that the prosecution has established a prima facie case,” the magistrate said.

The accused were initially arrested alongside a third co-wife, who later died while in detention. Proceedings against the deceased were subsequently terminated.

The two women are facing one count of corrupt practices. The allegations are that on May 4, 2025, while acting jointly and together, they corruptly offered K4,800 as gratification to a public officer as an inducement to secure the release of a person in lawful custody.

When the matter came up, the court inquired about the presence of defence lawyers. After explanations were provided for their absence, the magistrate directed that proceedings would continue.

The accused have both pleaded not guilty to the charge.

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