The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has expressed concern over what it termed as continued disregard of citizens’ human rights by law enforcement agencies, particularly the Zambia Police Service in the manner suspects are treated while in custody.
The Association has also expressed concern about the continued detention of accused individuals in police cells for extended periods without being presented before a court, despite the offences being bondable.
In a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today, LAZ President Lungisani Zulu emphasized that such practices are in direct violation of the Criminal Procedure Code and the suspects’ right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“It is our firm belief that while the Police have a crucial role in maintaining law and order by apprehending and bringing people suspected of breaking the law, this must be done within the confines of the law to uphold the constitutional rights of suspects,” Mr. Zulu.
Mr. Zulu has further condemned acts of mob justice following the circulation of a video on social media depicting a young man identified as Enock Simfukwe, tied with ropes after allegedly being caught stealing at Munyama Farms.
Mr. Zulu highlighted that the video shows the suspect in a distressed condition after purportedly being manhandled by the people who apprehended him.
“The Police, through a statement dated 19th August, 2025 confirmed that they were investigating the death of a 22-year-old Simfukwe who was apprehended on 16th August, 2025 at Munyama Farms,” said Mr. Zulu.
He has further cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands and urged citizens to hand over suspected criminals to the police.
By Margaret Mwanza
