Police detain 19-year-old over AI-generated image of musician in Zambia Army uniform

Police have detained a 19-year-old man in connection with an identity theft and impersonation case involving an image circulating on social media that depicts a local musician wearing a Zambia Army uniform.

Zambia Police Service Spokesperson, Godfrey Chilabi, said investigations had been instituted into the image, which is suspected to have been AI-generated.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, Chilabi said one suspect had been apprehended and was in police custody.

Chilabi said the matter was reported at Kabwata Police Station on October 6, 2026 by Charles Chomba, 24, a local musician from Jack Compound in Lusaka.

“It is alleged that between September 25 and 28, 2026, an individual created an image depicting Chomba wearing a Zambia Army uniform bearing the rank of Brigadier General,” he said.

Chilabi said the image was subsequently circulated on Facebook and came to the attention of the Zambia Army.

He said the Zambia Police Service, in collaboration with the Military Police, identified Daudi Ngambi, 19, of John Howard Compound in Lusaka, as a suspect during joint investigations.

“He was subsequently apprehended and remains in police custody as investigations continue,” Chilabi stated.

Chilabi warned members of the public that the misuse of AI-generated or digitally manipulated content, particularly material involving defence and security institutions, could undermine public confidence, facilitate impersonation and spread misinformation.

He said such content could also create security concerns by falsely portraying individuals as members or officers of security institutions.

He urged members of the public to exercise caution and responsibility when creating, sharing or circulating such content and to verify information before sharing it.

“The creation or circulation of digitally manipulated content for unlawful purposes may attract criminal liability under applicable laws,” Chilabi said.

He said further updates would be provided as investigations progressed.

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