Human Rights Commission condemns the killing of Zambia Police Officer’s wife

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has condemned the killing of the wife of a Police Officer by suspected armed robbers in Makeni Villa, Lusaka, as the act constitutes a grave violation of the right to life of the deceased.

The Commission has also condemned the attack on Sergeant Billy Simwamba’s family that resulted not only in the death of his wife but also, in his wounding together with his brother who sustained multiple injuries resulting into their hospitalisation.

Speaking in a press statement issued to ZANIS in Lusaka yesterday, HRC Principal Information Officer, Simon Mulumbi said the deprivation of the right to life is in violation of international and regional human rights instruments as well as the Bill of Rights of the Zambian Constitution, Chapter 1 of the Laws of Zambia which guarantees the right to life under Article 12.

Mr. Mulumbi said it is regrettable that police officers who work tirelessly and under very difficult conditions to protect the lives and properties of other people are made to pay with the lives of their beloved ones and have their own lives endangered for carrying out such noble duty.

He has since called upon members of the public to rally behind the Zambia Police Service as it tracks down the three suspected armed robbers who are on the run so that they are brought to book in accordance with the law.

“There is need to put an end to the continuous attacks on law enforcement officers and innocent civilians,” he said.

Mr. Mulumbi added that, it important for the communities to continue to work together with the police in community policing through long-term partnerships such as neighbourhood watch groups in order to ensure a safe and secure environment for all people to live and enjoy their rights and freedoms without fear of being attacked or robbed by individuals attempting to carry out unlawful activities.