Lusaka businesswoman, three others deny kidnapping in alleged jealousy-fuelled revenge case

In a dramatic case involving alleged romantic rivalry, assault, and social media threats, Lusaka businesswoman, Wendy Mutale, popularly known as Mrs Kennedy, has pleaded not guilty to charges of abduction and kidnapping.

Mutale, 26, a self-proclaimed social diva and entrepreneur based in Meanwood, appeared before Magistrate Chrispin Hampungani on Wednesday, alongside co-accused Cynthia Longwani, 31, Ennie Chifwalo, 30, and Angela Chitete, 38.

The four women are accused of kidnapping two other women — Lucy Mushabati and Nchimunya Malambo — in an alleged revenge plot believed to be linked to suspicions of an affair involving Mutale’s husband.

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They face two charges: one count of kidnapping with intent to cause grievous harm or slavery, and another of abduction with intent to confine the victims. All four denied the charges.

According to court records, the victims were allegedly abducted on February 4, 2025, from the Kabwata–Chilenje area and taken to Mutale’s residence in Vona Valley, Meanwood.

There, it is alleged, they were beaten, locked in a room, and had their phones confiscated.

Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the arrest of the suspects after a report was filed at Chilenje Police Station. He said preliminary investigations pointed to a case of vigilante-style justice spurred by romantic jealousy.

“The incident appears to have been motivated by claims that Mushabati was involved in an affair with Mrs Kennedy’s husband. Matters escalated after a Facebook video posted by Mrs Kennedy on February 3, in which she hurled insults and threats at the victim,” Hamoonga stated.

According to the charge sheet, the accused allegedly acted together to abduct Mushabati with the intent to cause grievous harm, in contravention of Section 257 of the Penal Code.

They also face a second charge of abducting Malambo with the intention of secretly and wrongfully confining her, contrary to Section 256.

All four women are currently on police bond.

Trial has been set for June 19, 2025.

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