SEVERAL PEOPLE ARRESTED OVER ALLEGED PLOT TO INTERFERE WITH THE ELECTORAL SYSTEM.
SEVERAL PEOPLE ARRESTED OVER ALLEGED PLOT TO INTERFERE WITH THE ELECTORAL SYSTEM.
By Veronica Chilufya.
Zambia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security says several people have been arrested over an alleged plot to interfere with the country’s electoral system ahead of the general election.
Permanent Secretary Dickson Matembo, said the arrests followed an intelligence-led operation involving defense and security agencies.
Three former senior government officials are among those in custody and are accused of providing technical services intended to disrupt the electoral system.
Authorities have also invited Japhen Mwakalombe, Mwila Kakana and Sensho Banda to assist with investigations after they were reportedly found with more than 7.3 million kwacha.
The ministry said the source and intended use of the money have not been established. Their lawyers have indicated that they will only be available after August 14.
According to Matembo, investigators also found sensitive military intelligence on electronic devices seized from the trio, raising concerns about possible unauthorized access to protected information.
A 56-year-old Kenyan national, Michael Njuka, has also been arrested over allegations that he was contracted to carry out cybercrime targeting the state.
Matembo, denied reports of abductions, saying former Ambassador Martha Lungu and journalist Hannah Katontoka were detained to assist with investigations and have since been released.
Security agencies remain on high alert as Zambia prepares for the polls, with the ministry urging citizens to remain calm and law-abiding.
Authorities warned that anyone attempting to compromise national security, interfere with critical systems or engage in criminal activity would face the law.
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