President Hichilema Forced to Retreat as Violent Unrest Erupts in Chingola
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was swiftly escorted to safety on Saturday afternoon after violence broke out during his public address at Chiwempala Market in Chingola, Copperbelt Province.
The President had been speaking to residents affected by a recent market fire and ongoing mining disputes when a section of the crowd turned hostile.
Crowd Turns Violent
According to witnesses, chanting began in the crowd before it escalated into stone-throwing directed toward the Presidential podium. Security personnel quickly intervened and evacuated the President to a landing zone at Chikola Secondary School.
The disturbances continued along the Presidential motorcade route. Protesters reportedly threw stones at vehicles and vandalized property as the convoy moved through the area.
Police Vehicle Burnt and Property Destroyed
The Zambia Police Service confirmed that a police Toyota Land Cruiser was attacked, its windows shattered, overturned, and set on fire. Superintendent Lloyd Kanondo, who was driving the vehicle, discharged warning shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd, but the efforts were unsuccessful.
Other property destroyed included a presidential holding tent, carpets, furniture, a presidential portrait, and a portable toilet. The total cost of the damages has not yet been determined.
Two Suspects Arrested
Zambia Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the riots. The suspects, identified as Abraham Chilumbu (24) and Abraham Sichone (21), are expected to face charges related to arson and malicious damage to property.
Hichilema Calls for Calm
Although he did not directly comment on the attack during the event, President Hichilema later pledged that his government would address community concerns through lawful and peaceful means. He encouraged residents to engage constructively rather than resort to violence.
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