A surgeon at Chama District Hospital has been arrested for the alleged defilement of a 15-year-old girl, which left the juvenile five months pregnant.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the arrest to Diamond News identifying the suspect as Frank Kapendi, aged 43 of Chief Kambombo’s area.
According to Police the survivor reported the matter at Chama Police Station on May 2, 2026, at 16:30 hours.
The teenager complained of discomfort in her private parts and persistent stomach pain.
She told police that she had been defiled and impregnated by a known adult male, whom investigators later identified as Dr. Kapendi.
Police officers from Chama Police Station moved swiftly, apprehending the suspect on May 5, 2026.
During interviews, Dr. Kapendi admitted to having had sexual intercourse with the victim, stating that the incident occurred approximately five months ago.
His admission aligned perfectly with medical findings, which confirmed that the girl is five months pregnant.
The suspect further led police officers to his house and inside, he pointed to his bed and reportedly referred to it as the same piece of furniture he used to defile the victim.
Mr. Mweemba confirmed that the suspect has been formally charged with defilement of a child under 16 years of age, contrary to the laws of Zambia.
He has been arrested and is currently in police custody, awaiting his first appearance in court.
The alleged offense occurred on an unknown date between January 1, 2024, and April 27, 2026, Chief Kambombo, Chama District.
By Samuel Khwawe
