By Suleman Chitera
Chingola, Zambia – November 8, 2025: A visit by President Hakainde Hichilema to Chingola District took a violent turn on Saturday after a section of the crowd turned riotous, resulting in acts of arson, looting, and destruction of government and private property.
According to a statement from the Zambia Police Service, the chaos began around 14:50 hours at Chiwempala Market where President Hichilema was addressing residents. A group of unruly individuals reportedly began breaking into shops and looting merchandise. When police officers attempted to restore order, the mob became increasingly aggressive and charged towards the presidential address area.
President Evacuated for Safety
For security reasons, the Head of State was quickly and safely evacuated from the venue and escorted to Chikola Secondary School landing grounds. However, the mob followed the motorcade, pelting government vehicles with stones and other projectiles.
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Police Vehicle Burnt
Superintendent Lloyd Kanondo, 48, reported that a white Toyota Land Cruiser, registration ZP 2537 B, was overturned and set ablaze by the mob. The police officer discharged ten rounds of warning shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd, but the situation continued to escalate.
The value of the destroyed government property is still being assessed.
More Property Set on Fire
The mob also torched property at Chikola Secondary School grounds, including:
A Presidential Holding Tent belonging to Events Matters Company (Lusaka)
Two carpet runners and a floor carpet
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A Presidential portrait
A coffee table from the Lusaka Provincial Maintenance unit
A portable toilet belonging to Chrisai Company (Lusaka)
Several vehicle windscreens and windows were reportedly smashed in the unrest.
Police Condemn Violence
The Zambia Police have condemned the acts of violence and confirmed that investigations have been launched to identify and arrest the perpetrators behind the destruction.
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“The Zambia Police Service will not tolerate criminality disguised as public expression. Suspects involved in the riot and arson attacks will be pursued and brought to justice,” the statement reads.
Community Urged to Remain Calm
Authorities are appealing to Chingola residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations while police restore order in the affected areas.
