STATEMENT ON THE CHOMA RIOTS

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Zambia Police
Zambia Police

Police in Choma have apprehended 21 suspected UPND cadres in connection with the riots that happened on 26th January 2016 around 15:00 hours. Further, a Toyota Corolla Registration No.AJB 4809 which was being used by three cadres to cause commotion has also been impounded.
The UPND cadres who had gathered along the main road in anticipation to receive their President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, blocked traffic , climbed on moving trucks and started throwing stones at passing motor vehicles which resulted in three of them including a Police Landcruser ZP 2312B being damaged.
In trying to restore order, three police officers sustained injuries after being stoned by the rioters. Arising from the unruly and riotous behavior, police used tear gas to disperse the cadres.
As Zambia Police, we wish to strongly condemn the conduct of these UPND cadres. It is unfortunate that the UPND leadership could not restrain their cadres even after having assured the Police Command in a meeting that was held at Police headquarters that they would always abide by the provisions of the Public Order Act and ensure that they would maintain law and order during their processions.
Violence shall never be condoned and all violent situations will be dealt seriously. The conduct by UPND cadres as witnessed in Choma shall not be condoned and for this reason, all the apprehended suspects will be taken to court and prosecuted for their involvement in the riotious activity.
The Zambia Police wishes to call upon all political leaders to ensure that they prevail on the conduct of their cadres even as they notify Police of their intentions to hold political activities.
EUGENE SIBOTE
DEPUTY INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE -ADMINISTRATION
27th January 2016

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