Police in Lukulu District of Western Province have apprehended two suspects in connection with the theft of medical supplies after allegedly breaking into a health facility in the early hours of today.
Western Province Police Commissioner Rae Hamoonga confirmed the arrests to Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in an interview today.
Mr Hamoonga said the incident occurred around 01:00 hours in Lishua area of Chief Imenda’s Chiefdom in Lukulu District.
He identified the suspects as Kayombo Kaumba, 23, and Robinson Shamanga, 23, both of Lishua area saying the third suspect is on the run.
“Brief facts of the matter are that Mr. Monde Lubasi, aged 32, of Lishua area in Village Lute, Chief Imenda, Lukulu District, reported that the health facility was broken into by three male persons” Mr Hamoonga said.
He said the suspects allegedly forced entry by pushing open a door and stole assorted medical supplies, that includes a Determine HIV test kit valued at K300, a Syphilis test kit valued at K250, and a package of syringes valued at K250, bringing the total value of the stolen items to K800.
According to Mr Hamoonga, Mr Lubasi heard suspicious noises from the mothers’ shelter and, upon checking, discovered that one of the doors to the health facility had been forced open.
The Police Commissioner further stated that when the suspects were confronted, they allegedly assaulted some medical officers and forced their way out of the facility and in the process dropped a laptop bag containing a National Registration Card (NRC), which led to the identification and subsequent apprehension of two of the suspects.
Mr Hamoonga warned members of the public against engaging in criminal activities, particularly targeting public institutions such as health facilities.
“The Zambia Police Service wishes to strongly warn criminals that break into public institutions, especially health facilities that serve vulnerable members of our communities, will not be tolerated,” he said.
The suspects are currently remanded in custody at Mongu Central Police Station in Mongu District and are expected to appear in court soon.
