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The Zambia Police Service has confirmed a shooting incident at SOS Police Post in Matero, in which two suspected criminals were fatally wounded after attempting to free a suspect who was in police custody.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said the incident occurred on July 31, 2026, around 21:50 hours.
Preliminary investigations indicate that about four male suspects stormed the police post and demanded the release of their associate, Sailas Izukanji Simutenda, who was being held in custody.
The suspects, armed with machetes and knives, reportedly attempted to seize a service firearm from a police officer, posing an immediate threat to the officer and other persons at the police post.
“A struggle ensued, during which the officer discharged his firearm, fatally wounding two of the suspects. The remaining suspects fled the scene,” Chilabi said.
He said the two deceased suspects, identified as Vincent Muwana, alias Bino, and Steven, alias Soldier, both of Matero, were rushed to the University Teaching Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.
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Preliminary investigations indicate that the two deceased suspects were wanted in connection with several criminal cases, including aggravated robbery, theft from motor vehicles, and housebreaking in Matero and surrounding areas.
“They were also believed to be members of a notorious criminal gang known as “Chipandule”.The most recent incident linked to them was an aggravated robbery reported along Nguba Road on July 30, 2026, in which a 42-year-old man was shot and robbed of K40,000 in cash, an HP laptop, and a SIG Sauer 9mm pistol,” Chilabi said.
He said the bodies of the deceased were lying at the University Teaching Hospital Mortuary, awaiting post-mortem examinations.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing. Police say they have launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects who fled the scene.
“The Zambia Police Service warns that any person who attempts to attack police officers, interfere with lawful police operations, or assist in the escape of suspects in custody will face the full force of the law,” Chilabi warned.
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