Police hunt eight suspects in Kamutumbe murder case

KALUMBILA – Law enforcement agencies in Zambia's North-Western Province are intensifying their efforts to apprehend eight key suspects believed to be involved in the brutal murder of Eneless Kamutumbe, a respected businesswoman from the Kisasa area of Kalumbila District. The suspects have remained at large since the tragic incident, prompting a province-wide manhunt. Ms. Kamutumbe, whose entrepreneurial spirit had made her a familiar figure in the local community, was found dead under circumstances that have sent shockwaves through Kalumbila. While specific details surrounding the motive and nature of the attack have not been fully disclosed by the police to avoid prejudicing the ongoing investigation, the gravity of the crime has underscored concerns about safety and security in burgeoning mining towns and their surrounding settlements. North-Western Province Police Commissioner, whose office has been coordinating the search, confirmed that significant resources are being deployed to track down the fugitives. "Our teams are working tirelessly, following every lead to ensure these individuals are brought to justice," a police spokesperson, who preferred anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, stated. "We understand the community's distress and are committed to resolving this matter swiftly and comprehensively. We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist us." The incident has reignited public debate on the effectiveness of policing in rural and peri-urban areas, particularly those experiencing rapid economic growth due to mining activities. Kalumbila, home to significant mining operations, has seen an influx of people, leading to both economic opportunities and, at times, an increase in criminal activity. The community is calling for enhanced police visibility and proactive measures to prevent such heinous crimes from recurring. Local leaders and civil society organisations have joined the police in appealing to resident