INSPECTOR General of Police Lemmy Kajoba has vowed to bring the criminals who shot dead a police officer at Kalense toll gate in Kasama to book.

Police in Kasama recently launched a manhunt for an armed criminal who shot dead a police officer, raped two female toll collectors and stole K38,425.

In a statement, Friday, Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said the police officer was shot twice in the chest and left leg.

And in a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Inspector General of police in charge of Administration Doris Chibombe during Wilson Lungu’s funeral service, Tuesday, Kajoba assured the deceased’s family that the police would do everything to ensure that the perpetrators were brought to book.

“Fellow mourners, for those who had a chance to be close to our dear departed beloved officer, he was such a strong person through and through, from character, personality and presence. We are all here because somewhere somehow, we have all been touched by the demise of our late beloved officer. We are indeed saddened by the demise of our beloved officer and he will greatly be missed by us all. He will forever remain in our hearts. I wish to assure all family members, friends and indeed the nation at large that as police, we will do everything possible to bring the perpetrators of the gruesome killing to book. May the soul of our departed beloved officer rest in eternal peace,” he said.

“Fellow mourners, dear friends and family members gathered here today; On behalf of the Zambia police service and indeed on my own behalf, I must say that this day is not only hard for me but for all of us gathered here. We are indeed saddened by the untimely demise of our beloved officer, constable Lungu, who was killed in cold blood by those heartless criminals.”

Kajoba said the police service would always cherish the contribution and sacrifice that Lungu rendered to the service.

“I am aware of the fact that some of you officers and friends had your own personal and special experiences on the mark left by our departed beloved one. But from a police perspective, we cherish our officer’s service, sacrifice and contribution he rendered to the Zambia police. I am well informed that during his time as a police officer, he inspired his fellow officers in many aspects. It is regrettable that our gallant officer died a painful death at the hands of those criminals who killed him in cold blood. For this reason, he will always remain dear to the hearts of the men and women in the Zambia police service,” said Kajoba.