By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
A Muslim faith-based organization has commended the Zambia Police Service for the swift arrest of 259 suspects in Kalumbila district, following the tragic mob killing of a 49-year-old woman.
The murder case occurred on March 20, 2026, in Kisasa area of Kalumbila District, North Western Province of Zambia, in which Ms. Eneless Hellen Kamutumbe, aged 46, of Chingola, was fatally attacked by a mob.
The woman was killed after she was accused of causing the disappearance of the private parts of 25-year old Prince Ntambo following physical contact at a local market.
According to the Police, the allegation caused panic and triggered a commotion, leading to the formation of a mob that attacked the deceased using sticks, stones, planks and other objects. Attempts to move the victim to safety failed as the situation worsened.
And Family Development Initiatives (FDI)Team Leader, Sheikh Yussuf Ayami, expressed appreciation for the decisive action taken by law enforcement.
He noted that such timely intervention is critical in restoring order and deterring further acts of violence.
Sheikh Ayami emphasized that while communities may experience fear and uncertainty, particularly in situations involving allegations such as “tapping,” no circumstance justifies taking the law into one’s own hands.
He warned that such incidents have the potential to trigger mass hysteria similar to past occurrences, including the gassing incidents, with far-reaching consequences on families and communities.
“FDI strongly condemns all forms of mob justice and reiterates the importance of respecting the rule of law and due process. Justice must be administered through lawful institutions, not through violence driven by suspicion, fear, or misinformation,” he said.
Sheikh Ayami further underscored the sanctity of human life, stating that the protection of life is a fundamental principle that must be upheld at all times.
“In Islam, the taking of one innocent life is akin to taking the life of all humanity, while saving a single life is as though one has saved all of mankind. This principle calls for the highest regard for human dignity, restraint, and justice in all circumstances,” Sheikh Ayami added.
He stressed that no amount of alleged wrongdoing can ever justify the unlawful taking of a human life.
Sheikh Ayami called on communities to exercise patience, responsibility, and restraint while allowing law enforcement agencies to carry out their mandate.
“FDI remains committed to working with government, traditional leaders, civil society, and community stakeholders to strengthen awareness, counter harmful beliefs, and promote peaceful coexistence. The organisation continues to advocate for the protection of families and communities, noting that acts of violence inflict deep and lasting trauma on victims, families, and society at large,” he stated.
