Police spokesperson Esther Katongo says the command has instituted investigations into an article by the Daily Nation newspaper suggesting that six foreigners and their aircraft had been detained in Lusaka.

In a statement, Thursday, Katongo stated that the outcome of the investigations would be availed to members of the public.

“The Daily Nation in its edition number 2407 Published on Wednesday, October 2, 2019 carried an article headlined: “MERCENARIES, PLANE INTERCEPTED?”. We wish to state that The Zambia Police Service has taken keen interest in this revelation by the newspaper and an inquiry in the matter has been opened. The matter will be thoroughly investigated and the outcome will be communicated to the public. We therefore urge anyone with relevant information to avail it to the Police.” stated Katongo.

On Wednesday, Special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations Isaac Chipampe issued a similar statement, saying that so far, the story could not be substantiated with fact.

“The state has taken note of the lead story in the Daily Nation edition of Wednesday, October 2, 2019, suggesting that six foreigners and their aircraft have been detained in Lusaka. The state is following up with the originators of the article so that they help with the veracity of the story. So far, the story cannot be substantiated with fact and therefore, those with information on the matter should help by availing such information to the state,” stated Chipampe.