POLICE DISMISS REPORTS LINKING CHAWAMA OIC TRANSFER TO RECENT VIO•LENCE

LUSAKA – The Zambia Police Service has moved swiftly to quash speculative reports circulating widely on social media platforms, which suggested a direct link between the recent administrative transfer of the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) at Chawama Police Station and alleged incidents of political violence within the highly populated Lusaka constituency. The police command has labelled these reports as not only false but also highly misleading, urging the public to disregard them. Police Spokesperson Mr. Rae Hamoonga, in a statement released yesterday, emphasized that the transfer of the Chawama OIC was a standard, internal administrative procedure, devoid of any extraordinary circumstances or external pressures. “We wish to state unequivocally that the transfer of the Officer-in-Charge for Chawama Police Station was a routine administrative exercise, part of our ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and personnel development across the service,” Mr. Hamoonga stated. He further added that such transfers are a common occurrence within the Zambia Police Service, designed to ensure officers gain diverse experience and to optimize resource deployment. The social media frenzy had erupted following unverified claims that the OIC's relocation was either a punitive measure or a strategic move in response to a perceived upsurge in politically motivated clashes in Chawama, a constituency known for its vibrant political activity and large population. These claims had fueled public debate and raised concerns among residents regarding the impartiality and effectiveness of law enforcement in maintaining peace and order, particularly in the run-up to various local government by-elections or general elections. Mr. Hamoonga strongly cautioned against the propagation of misinformation, particularly through digital channels, which he noted often serves to create unnecessary alarm and undermine public confidence in state institutions. “The public is advised to rely on official