Police arrest farmer over death of Grade 10 pupil in Lufwanyama

Police on the Copperbelt have arrested a 24-year-old farmer in connection with the death of Grace Japao, an 18-year-old Grade 10 pupil in Lufwanyama District. Grace's body was found in a bush about 500 metres from the house where she was renting, in the Chimoto area of Chief Nkana in Lufwanyama District. Police believe she was killed sometime after 17:00 on 11 October 2026. Copperbelt Police Commissioner Rae Hamoonga said the suspect, described as a peasant farmer, was allegedly found with Grace's cellphone and wearing clothes with suspected bloodstains. Police are treating the case as murder. The suspect has not been named, and he has not been convicted of any offence. Why it matters Grace was one of many pupils in rural districts who rent rooms near their school because home is too far away to travel to each day. These learners often live without a parent or guardian nearby, which can leave them more exposed to danger. Her death is a reminder of the risks that come with that arrangement, and of how little protection there is for young people who leave home to stay in school. For her family and her school community in Lufwanyama, the priority now is an answer about what happened to her and justice through the courts. What happens next Police are continuing their investigations. The suspect is expected to be formally charged and to appear in court, but police have not yet given a date.