Police Apprehend Four Dangerous "Chipandule" Gang Members in Matero

Police in Lusaka have arrested four notorious members of the "Chipandule" gang, a criminal group that has been terrorizing residents in Matero and nearby areas.

Assistant Police Spokesperson, Godfrey Chilabi, reveals that the arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation conducted between 20:00 hours on April 26 and 05:00 hours on April 27, targeting criminal elements commonly referred to as "junkies."

Mr. Chilabi added that the operation, led by officers from Matero Police Station, aimed to dismantle the criminal networks posing a persistent threat to public safety.

He explains that during the operation, an 18-year-old gang member tried to escape by climbing onto a rooftop, despite several warning shots fired by the police, adding that I in the process, he was struck by an errant bullet and sustained an abdominal injury.

Mr. Chilabi notes that the victim was promptly rushed to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), where he is currently receiving treatment with his condition described as stable.

The apprehended suspects have been identified as Joseph Banda, alias "Josalase," aged 23; Prosper Mbewe, aged 24; and two male juveniles, aged 18 and 15.

Mr. Chilabi further noted that a 47-year-old woman, the mother of two of the suspects, was also arrested for aiding and abetting by providing them shelter and confirmed  that the suspects had been on the police wanted list for various offences, including aggravated robbery.

Meanwhile, police extended patrols to Chunga, George, Desai, Soweto, Kachele, Kizito, and Lilanda compounds, leading to the apprehension of 41 additional suspects, including two females, all linked to "junkie" activities.

All suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to appear in court soon.

The Assistant Police Spokesperson thanked the residents of Matero and surrounding areas for their continued cooperation and support in the ongoing efforts to make communities safer.