POLICE have arrested five members of the ruling party for the offence of aggravated robbery and unlawful wounding.

On Wednesday, President Hakainde Hichilema directed police to arrest UPND cadres who blocked and harassed citizens during a funeral procession on Tuesday.

In a statement, Friday, Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said police conducted some operations which commenced at midnight of June 4th, 2024, aimed at restoring order and apprehending those responsible for the chaos caused during a funeral procession of late UPND official Bryan Mizinga.

“Following the recent unrest in Bauleni Compound on June 4, 2024, Lusaka, before the burial of Mr. Bryan Mizinga, a notable party official from Kanyama Compound, the Zambia Police Service launched a massive crackdown operation. The operation commenced at midnight of June 4, 2024, and aimed to restore order and apprehend those responsible for the chaos,” Hamoonga stated.

“Police have so far successfully apprehended the following individuals: Namushi Muketoi aged 31, of an unmarked house in Young Star, Old Kanyama Compound, Lusaka. Mr. Muketoi has been detained in relation to the offence of aggravated robbery. Beatrice Mulemeli, aged 49, of Old Kanyama Compound, Lusaka. Ms. Mulemeli has been detained in relation to the offence of aggravated robbery. Mooya Nchimunya, aged 39, of an unmarked house in Kanono area, Old Kanyama Compound, Lusaka. Mr. Nchimunya has been detained in relation to the offence of aggravated robbery. Kelvin Chiwala, aged 32, of an unmarked house in Loveness Corner, New Kanyama Compound, Lusaka. Mr. Chiwala has been detained in relation to the offence of unlawful wounding. James Banda of unmarked house in kanyama. He has been detained in relation to the offence of aggravated robbery”.

Hamoonga said the apprehensions marked a significant step in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security.

“These apprehensions mark a significant step in our ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in our communities. The Zambia Police Service remains committed to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of all citizens.We urge the public to remain calm and cooperate with us as law enforcement officers as investigations continue. Any further updates will be communicated in due course,” stated Hamoonga.