Govt. dismisses abduction allegations

Government has dismissed allegations circulating on various media platforms suggesting that it has abducted individuals connected to some political parties. Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Dickson Matembo has clarified that several suspects,…

Government has dismissed allegations circulating on various media platforms suggesting that it has abducted individuals connected to some political parties.

Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Dickson Matembo has clarified that several suspects, among them, three former senior government officials have been apprehended over an alleged plot to interfere with the 2026 general elections.

Speaking during a joint media briefing, Mr Matembo clarified that no abductions have taken place, stressing that all actions undertaken by the state are within the confines of the law.

Mr Matembo emphasised that contrary to speculation, individuals such as former Ambassador Martha Lungu and journalist Hannah Katontoka were not abducted, but lawfully apprehended to assist with investigations and have since been released.

And government has commended members of the public for their cooperation in providing information that aided law enforcement and urged citizens to remain vigilant, reporting any activities that may threaten national security, public safety, or peace.

“The government’s position is clear. The security of the Republic of Zambia is a responsibility of the state and must be protected through lawful, accountable and constitutionally established institutions,” he emphasised.

Mr Matembo also confirmed the arrest of businessman Valden Findlay in connection with investigations into alleged military-related training undertaken by Zambian nationals abroad.

The arrest follows the earlier interception of three Zambian nationals at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on August 1st,   2026 who have since been arrested and charged with unlawful drilling, unauthorised use of uniform and prohibition of terrorism.

He explained that a joint intelligence-led operation involving defense and security agencies culminated in the apprehension of several suspects linked to attempts to interfere with the electoral process.

He added that the three former senior government officials are currently in lawful custody for allegedly providing technical services aimed at undermining the electoral system.

The Permanent Secretary revealed that Investigators have also extended invitations to Japhen Mwakalombe, Mwila Kakana and Sessho Banda to assist with ongoing inquiries after they were found in possession of over K7.3 million.

He explained that the source and intended purpose of the funds remains unclear, noting that the trio, however, have communicated through their lawyers that they will only be available after August 14th, 2026.

Mr Matembo further disclosed that sensitive military intelligence information was discovered on electronic devices seized from the suspects, raising concerns about unauthorised access to protected data.

In a related development, Mr Matembo also disclosed that a Kenyan national, Michael Juka, aged 56, has been apprehended for allegedly being contracted to carry out cybercrimes targeting the State.

And Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana warned that anyone attempting to disrupt elections, peace, or national security will face the wrath of the law.

He noted that some political leaders had admitted to sending people abroad for training and later declared readiness to kill or be killed during elections, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.

Mr Kawana added that foreigners linked to treasonous activities were among those arrested, while others fled.

He reiterated that the government would not allow desperate individuals to endanger peace and security in pursuit of political power.

“We are aware of some individuals that also have finished their so-called training and would want to get back into the country to implement that which they want to come and do on the soil of this country. We want to say we welcome them. The law enforcement agencies are ready”, the Permanent Secretary warned.