Police probe death of man who lodged in hotel with unidentified lady, suspected suicide by police officer

Police in Lusaka have launched investigations into a case of sudden death involving an unidentified male adult who was found dead in a lodge room in John Howard Compound.

According to Zambia Police Service spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi, the man—believed to be between 35 and 42 years old—was discovered lifeless on February 16, 2026, around 05:40 hours.

Preliminary information reveals that the deceased had checked into the lodge on February 15, 2026, at about 22:00 hours, accompanied by a woman estimated to be between 27 and 30 years old. Her whereabouts remain unknown.

“The body has been deposited at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Mortuary pending identification and a postmortem examination,” Chilabi said.

He urged members of the public with information about the male client or the woman who was with him to come forward and assist investigations.

Meanwhile, police have also confirmed the fatal shooting of an officer in Mkushi, identified as Constable Rister Chuwa, of TAZARA Mkushi Police Station.

Chilabi revealed that the incident happened on February 15, 2026, at around 08:30 hours within the police station premises.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Chuwa, who was on duty with another officer, accessed an AK-47 service rifle from the front desk after his colleague briefly stepped into a different office. Moments later, two gunshots were heard from the rear section of the building. Officers rushed to the scene and found Chuwa lying in a pool of blood, the firearm beside him.

He sustained a gunshot wound to the lower jaw and was rushed to Mkushi District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Initial findings point to a suspected suicide, though police say a full investigation is underway to establish the actual circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The body has been placed in the hospital mortuary pending a postmortem examination.

“The Zambia Police Service extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer during this difficult time,” Chilabi said, adding that further updates will be provided as investigations continue.

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