By Twink Jones Gadama
In a landmark judgment delivered today, High Court Judge Justice Chifundo Kachale sentenced six police officers to prison terms ranging from 15 to 20 years for the murder of Buleya Lule, a suspect who died in police custody in 2019.
According to the judgment, Paul Chipole, one of the convicted police officers, will serve a 20-year jail term, while Ikram Malata will serve an 18-year sentence for the count of murder.
The other four police officers – Richard Kalawire, Innocent Wanda, Maxwell Mbidzi, and Abel Maseya – have been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each for the same offense.
The court also considered a second count of causing grievous harm, but Justice Kachale ruled that no separate sentence would be imposed, as the harm caused led to Lule’s death.
The sentencing brings closure to a case that has been ongoing for several years. Buleya Lule was accused of abducting and killing a boy with albinism in 2019.
However, before he could stand trial, Lule died in police custody, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice.
Lead defense lawyer Lugamo Mwabutwa expressed satisfaction with the judgment, stating that they are happy with the outcome.
On the other hand, state prosecutor Dzikondianthu Malunda indicated that while they had sought a maximum sentence, they are pleased to have brought the case to a close.
The sentencing of the six police officers serves as a reminder that the justice system is committed to holding accountable those who abuse their power and violate human rights.
It also underscores the importance of ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate with transparency, accountability, and respect for human life.
As the country continues to grapple with issues of police brutality and human rights abuses, this judgment is a significant step towards promoting justice, accountability, and the rule of law.
