Seven people, including a baby, have died after suspected criminals attacked a village in Lukulu District, Western Province, and set five houses on fire.
According to Western Province Commanding Officer Rae Hamoonga, the attack occurred between 01:00 hours and 02:00 hours this morning at Kamboyi Village in the Imenda area, about 20 kilometres north of Lukulu Boma along the Lukulu-Watopa off-road.
The assailants, who were armed with offensive weapons, stormed the village and torched five houses together with household property.
Hamoonga said the houses were completely burnt to ashes.
“As a result of the attack, seven people tragically lost their lives. Six victims are believed to have died in the inferno while one infant was allegedly murdered using a hammer,” disclosed Hamoonga.
The deceased have been identified as Beatrice Kandanda, 60, Kamboye Kamboye Junior, 28, Chilemu Chingi, 70, Bisesa Susiku, 25, Simon Kapalu, nine, Mathews Mukimba, 28, and Miracle Muhona, aged one year and five months.
Police said Ruth Kamboyi, 29, sustained a swollen face and a cut on the head after being assaulted during the attack.
Three other victims, identified as Wana Kamboyi, 22, Eunice Mukimba, 45, and Mahongo Kamboyi, 16, suffered burns on various parts of their bodies.
Police further revealed that after carrying out the attack, the criminals reportedly stole 43 cattle comprising bulls, cows and oxen branded VR/68, valued at about K370,500, belonging to Kamboyi Kamboyi.
Hamoonga said intensive investigations have been launched into the case, which involves murder, aggravated robbery and arson.
He said no arrests had been made.
Looks like a war
Is this for police or the army?
Neither are capable
Offensive weapons ?? Sticks or Catapalts What sort of statement is this from the police