Police in Lusaka yesterday dispersed Socialist Party members who tried to convene a training meeting in Matero and arrested one member in the process.

Police Spokesperson Esther Katongo in a statement said the meeting was not allowed because the party did not notify the police about their intention to hold such a meeting.

Katongo said one person was arrested while three phones were picked.

She added that it is not true that police confiscated the phones from the conveners.

“Members if the socialist party did not notify the police that they would be in Matero conducting their party activities. When information reached Police, Police, officers went there and the said people ran away. One person was picked while some of those who ran away left three phones on site which were picked by police. It is therefore not correct to say police confiscated the phones from them because the phones were picked on site. Those claiming ownership of the same phones can go to Matero Police and see the officer in charge. Their phones are there,” Katongo said.

And Katongo said the demands to released the apprehended suspect is misplaced.

“The demand to release the apprehended person is misplaced. The Police are not harassing anyone but what political players should not ignore is that this country is of laws. People should not deliberately abrogate the provisions of the law and cry victim when officers act. Our job is to enforce the Law and we shall do just that,” Katongo said.

And Socialist Party Secretary General Dr Cosmas Musumali condemned the conduct by police adding that the party reserved the right to operate without harassment.

“This is unacceptable and unwarranted. As a Party we reserve the right to operate without harassment. We further demand the immediate release of the arrested comrades and a return of all confiscated items to the owners,” said Dr Musumali.