Katebe alleges police abduction, as 11 reportedly arrested in Lusaka over disorderly conduct

The Non-governmental Gender Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe has described her arrest and detention as an abduction.

Police in Lusaka arrested Katebe and 11 others for conduct likely to cause a breach of peace after escorting UPND Mayoral candidate for Lusaka, Ketty Nanyangwe to file in her nominations at the Civic Centre.

“For me I would say we were not actually arrested. The police abducted us together with the aspiring candidate and a supporters,” Katebe said upon being released from detention at Kabwata Police Station.

She alleged that upon reaching Kabwata Police Station, the group was told to take off everything and get into the police cells and that after about 30 minutes, an officer called out her name and taken to an office for caution and warning.

“I was given the phone and then we were brought to the offices to come and do the caution and warning but for me I have decided not to sign. The group was told to “fast fast enter” into a police vehicle without windows. Two media persons from NGOCC were also bundled into the vehicle without knowing where we where going until when we reached here,” Katebe said.

She claimed she refused to sign because the charge against her was different from what she had done, which was supporting an aspiring female candidate.

Earlier, Police Spokesperson said Katebe and others were alleged to have engaged in disorderly conduct during the process.

“All 12 suspects have been formally charged and arrested with conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, contrary to Section 178(f) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia,” Chilabi said.

All the suspects have since been released on police bond pending court appearance.

The other suspects are Cecilia Chibesa of Matero, Lucy Chawinga of Kamwala South, Charles Gondwe of Kamwala South, Jackson Mulikiti of Lukulu Road, Kamwala, Kelvin Muleya of New Kasama, Margret Nguleta of Bauleni, Ganizani Moonga of Northmead, Ketina Nanyangwe of Woodlands, Miracle Phiri of Chawama, Chileshe Romano of Garden Park, and Vincent Siandwebe of Roma.

“The Zambia Police Service wishes to confirm the arrest of twelve (12) people for conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, contrary to the laws of Zambia,” Chilabi said.

Chilabi reminded members of the public to remain peaceful and follow lawful procedures during public and civic activities.

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