INSPECTOR General of Police Kakoma Kanganja says investigations have been launched to ascertain how exactly two people were shot dead this morning.

In a statement, Kanganja said “In the process of dispersing the unruly crowd using tear smoke canisters, two people were reported to have been shot dead in unknown circumstances”.

“As you may be aware, police summoned the president of the United Party for National Development, (UPND) Mr Hakainde Hichilema to police service headquarters for an interview. Prior to his appearing, police as well as the Minister of Home Affairs had advised people to stay away to avoid break down in law and order. However, this morning as Mr Hichilema was coming to police headquarters, he was being escorted by a huge crowd which was dispersed by police officers from Cabinet Office area on independence avenue, High Court and other notable areas such as civic center,” stated Kanganja.

“In the process of dispersing the unruly crowd using tear smoke canisters, two people were reported to have been shot dead in unknown circumstances which we are yet to establish.
Investigations in the shooting have been instituted to establish the circumstances in which the two victims were shot. We shall wait for forensic examinations so as to ascertain what type of firearm was used and the public shall be informed on the findings and way ahead. Police officers will remain on the ground to monitor the security situation. We appeal to members of the public to remain calm during this period and should not take the law into their own hands.”

A state prosecutor Nsama Nsama and an unidentified youth were this morning shot dead by police.

More on this story as events unfold.