Police are fighting running battles with villagers in Mwense after a riot broke out following the death of a native believed to have been murdered by Chief Mulundu.

Luapula Province Police Commissioner Elias Chushi confirmed the development to News Diggers in an interview, but said he was yet to get full details regarding the murder case.

“I am able to confirm, but I am still waiting for facts. What has happened is that the Chief has been implicated in a case of murder. One of his subjects is alleged to have been murdered by the chief himself and his retainer. So that is what led to the violent situation,” said Chushi.

“We have deployed officers on the ground and the situation is calm now. It is not true that the rioters have burnt down the chief’s palace, but the villagers did burn down the shop belonging to the chief. That is what they have burnt down. But the situation is calm now. As to the murder case, I will get back to you when we establish facts.”