Police officers have been deployed in parts of Lusaka to enhance security for students of Levy Mwanawasa University following a series of alleged criminal attacks targeting students in surrounding communities.
The move comes after several students, particularly female students, reported incidents of harassment, robbery and suspected rape cases in areas such as PHI, Mtendere and Kalingalinga, where many students rent private accommodation due to limited campus housing.
According to reports, the attacks are believed to have been carried out by suspected criminals taking advantage of poorly secured boarding houses, inadequate lighting and the absence of consistent security patrols in the areas. The situation sparked fear among students, prompting calls for urgent government intervention.
Gender Division Permanent Secretary Mainga Kabika said the deployment of officers is aimed at restoring safety and confidence among students.
She added that government will also relocate some students into former university office premises, which are now set to be converted into boarding houses to provide safer and more controlled accommodation.
Ms. Kabika made the remarks when she, alongside Resettlement Division Permanent Secretary Mervis Nkomesha and other stakeholders, accompanied police officers on patrol and inspections of boarding houses in the affected areas.
Meanwhile, Ms. Nkomesha said government will strengthen security measures in boarding houses, including improving infrastructure and monitoring systems, to better protect students.
National Council of Student Unions (NACOSU) Chairperson Michelo Chizombe condemned the attacks, describing the reported rape cases as inhumane and unacceptable.
And Brian Malambo, president of the university’s student union, thanked government for responding to the concerns, expressing hope that the measures will help restore safety in the affected communities.
There is a Police Officer who was seen on Prime TV news last night brutally whipping a young lady student from Levy Mwanawasa during the protest yesterday. Has this Police chap been identified, isolated and probably detained. Why do these chaps do things they are not allowed to do? Why is there too much lawlessness and indiscipline from these chaps who are supposed to protect the very people they are beating.
Yes, regretably i also saw a Police Officer beating a young levy Mwanawasa student yesterday during the protest. Very sad.