Police Arrest Six After Violent Confrontation at UTH Bus Station
Police Arrest Six After Violent Confrontation at UTH Bus Station
A routine lunchtime period at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Bus Station descended into chaos yesterday after a violent altercation broke out between minibus drivers and suspected illegal levy collectors.
At around 13:00 hours, what started as a confrontation quickly spiralled into disorder, leaving four people injured and six suspects in police custody. The injured were later admitted to the University Teaching Hospital, located only a short distance from the bus station.
According to police, the incident occurred when a group of individuals allegedly attempted to forcefully collect unlawful levies from minibus drivers operating at the busy station. The drivers resisted the demands, triggering a heated exchange that soon turned physical.
The suspects are reported to have been armed with dangerous weapons and allegedly attacked the drivers, causing panic among passengers and members of the public. Some people fled the area for safety, while others watched from a distance as the situation unfolded in full public view.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as highly volatile and unsafe, forcing bystanders and journalists alike to retreat. Due to the danger, only brief video footage was captured before police arrived to bring the situation under control.
Upon reaching the scene, officers found four individuals with varying degrees of injuries sustained during the clash. They were immediately rushed to UTH for medical treatment.
Police later arrested six suspects identified as Caesar Mweemba (42), Odriscal Malambo (27), Special Moonga (36), and Victor Kabali (35), all of Bauleni Compound, as well as Leonard Chiwaka (32) and Mateyo Sakala (53) of Mtendere Compound.
The suspects are currently detained as investigations continue. Police have also seized a motor vehicle believed to have been used during the incident.
Confirming the development, Zambia Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi cautioned members of the public against engaging in illegal and violent conduct, emphasizing that the law will be applied without exception.
Investigations are ongoing as police work to apprehend additional suspects who reportedly escaped during the commotion.