By ALICE NACHILEMBE
The Zambia Police Service has arrested seven suspects in connection with the theft of 16 animals from Nyelele Village, Nyimba District.
The suspects, who were apprehended on January 4, 2025, include the driver of the vehicle used to transport the stolen animals, his assistant, and five other individuals who hired the vehicle.
According to Police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, the suspects stole the animals, valued at K25,000, from a farm belonging to Astrida Phiri.
Mr Hamoonga said the stolen animals were later recovered at Soweto Market, where they were being sold.
The suspects, who are currently in police custody, have been identified as Thomas Chungwe, 52, of Mwanda Village, Nyimba, Clever Phiri, 52, of Mashati Village, Chipata, Fuckson Lungu, 54, of Mulila Village, Nyimba, Mekelani Tembo, 39, of Nyimba.
Others are Tyson Phiri, 30, the driver, of Mtendere Township, a male juvenile, 18, lorry boy, of Mtendere and Ruth Nguni, 64, the receiver of the carcass, of Kanyama Township.
The police have commended the member of the public who reported the incident, urging others to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
The suspects will be formally charged for stock theft and related offenses in Nyimba District.
