FAMILY DEMANDS JUSTICE AFTER TAXI DRIVER DIES IN MONGU POLICE CUSTODY

A routine arrest over alleged stolen pigs has taken a tragic turn, leaving a 40-year-old taxi driver, Sitwala Nawa, dead under disturbing circumstances in Mongu Police Cells. The shocking incident, which occurred on February 1, 2025, has sparked outrage and demands for justice from his grieving family, who dispute the police’s explanation of events.

POLICE ACCOUNT OF EVENTS

According to the Western Province Police Command, Sitwala Nawa was detained in Mongu after being implicated in a case involving stolen pigs. While in custody, authorities claim he exhibited violent behavior toward fellow inmates, which allegedly led to a fatal altercation.

Police state that during the commotion, Nawa allegedly struck his head against an iron bar, causing him to lose consciousness. Efforts were made to resuscitate him, but he succumbed to his injuries.

FAMILY ALLEGES FOUL PLAY

However, Nawa’s family strongly refutes the official police report, insisting that he was mercilessly beaten and stabbed while in custody. They argue that multiple injuries on his body, including what they claim are stab wounds, suggest that he was subjected to excessive force rather than being injured in an accident.

The family is now demanding an independent investigation into his death, fearing a cover-up by law enforcement. They are calling on human rights organizations and legal bodies to ensure accountability and transparency in uncovering the truth.

BODY AWAITS POSTMORTEM

Nawa’s remains are currently at Lewanika General Hospital Mortuary, awaiting a postmortem examination. The results are expected to provide clarity on the exact cause of death and whether his injuries are consistent with the police’s account.

Meanwhile, the case has raised serious concerns about police brutality and detainee safety in Zambia. Community members and activists have urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable if any wrongdoing is discovered.

As the investigation unfolds, Sitwala Nawa’s family continues to seek justice, vowing to pursue legal action to ensure the truth behind his suspicious death is revealed.
By Christine Musole