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Fugitive Zambian MP apprehended in Zimbabwe
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Emmanuel Jay Banda, a Zambian legislator who escaped from lawful custody earlier this year, has been apprehended by Zimbabwean police after being on the run for over three months. Banda, the Independent Member of Parliament (MP) for Petauke Central, was arrested in Harare, Zimbabwe, following a coordinated effort between Zambian and Zimbabwean authorities.
In a statement released yesterday, Zambia's Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, confirmed that Banda was captured in Zimbabwe on November 19, 2024, at around 10 a.m. "The Home Affairs and Internal Security ministry wishes to inform the public that Honourable Emmanuel Jay Banda, who escaped from lawful custody at Chipata General Hospital on the night of August 4, 2024, has been apprehended in Zimbabwe," Mwiimbu said.
Banda, who was facing serious charges including aggravated robbery, attempted murder, and escape from lawful custody, had been receiving medical treatment at Chipata General Hospital when he made his escape. Despite being guarded by police and Zambia Correctional Service officers, Banda managed to flee on August 4, 2024.
Following his escape, Zambian authorities launched a nationwide search and offered a reward of two million kwacha for information leading to his whereabouts. It was later revealed that Banda had been renting a flat in Harare, and this information led Zimbabwean police to his location.
The Zambian government expressed gratitude for the swift cooperation of Zimbabwean authorities in locating and arresting Banda. "We appreciate the quick and effective action of the Zimbabwean authorities, who helped apprehend Hon Banda," Minister Mwiimbu said.
Banda's escape sparked a series of investigations and arrests in Zambia. Several individuals, including opposition figures and civil rights activists, were arrested on various charges related to the incident. Among those arrested were Edith Nawakwi, leader of the opposition Forum for Development and Democracy (FDD), and civil rights activist Brebner Changala, who were charged with seditious practices. Other political figures, including MP Munir Zulu and Patriotic Front's Maureen Mabonga, faced charges related to hate speech and sedition.
Banda, who had been serving as an MP since 2021, is closely linked to former President Edgar Lungu, whose presidency was ousted by current President Hakainde Hichilema that same year. Following his escape, there was speculation that Banda had staged his disappearance for political reasons, with claims that he was being used for political leverage.
Before his escape, Banda had been in custody awaiting trial for aggravated robbery, a non-bailable offence. His escape from the hospital, despite being guarded by law enforcement officers, caused a major stir and led to a highly publicized investigation.
As the case develops, the Zambian authorities will now seek Banda's extradition to face trial for the charges against him.
In a statement released yesterday, Zambia's Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, confirmed that Banda was captured in Zimbabwe on November 19, 2024, at around 10 a.m. "The Home Affairs and Internal Security ministry wishes to inform the public that Honourable Emmanuel Jay Banda, who escaped from lawful custody at Chipata General Hospital on the night of August 4, 2024, has been apprehended in Zimbabwe," Mwiimbu said.
Banda, who was facing serious charges including aggravated robbery, attempted murder, and escape from lawful custody, had been receiving medical treatment at Chipata General Hospital when he made his escape. Despite being guarded by police and Zambia Correctional Service officers, Banda managed to flee on August 4, 2024.
Following his escape, Zambian authorities launched a nationwide search and offered a reward of two million kwacha for information leading to his whereabouts. It was later revealed that Banda had been renting a flat in Harare, and this information led Zimbabwean police to his location.
The Zambian government expressed gratitude for the swift cooperation of Zimbabwean authorities in locating and arresting Banda. "We appreciate the quick and effective action of the Zimbabwean authorities, who helped apprehend Hon Banda," Minister Mwiimbu said.
Banda's escape sparked a series of investigations and arrests in Zambia. Several individuals, including opposition figures and civil rights activists, were arrested on various charges related to the incident. Among those arrested were Edith Nawakwi, leader of the opposition Forum for Development and Democracy (FDD), and civil rights activist Brebner Changala, who were charged with seditious practices. Other political figures, including MP Munir Zulu and Patriotic Front's Maureen Mabonga, faced charges related to hate speech and sedition.
Banda, who had been serving as an MP since 2021, is closely linked to former President Edgar Lungu, whose presidency was ousted by current President Hakainde Hichilema that same year. Following his escape, there was speculation that Banda had staged his disappearance for political reasons, with claims that he was being used for political leverage.
Before his escape, Banda had been in custody awaiting trial for aggravated robbery, a non-bailable offence. His escape from the hospital, despite being guarded by law enforcement officers, caused a major stir and led to a highly publicized investigation.
As the case develops, the Zambian authorities will now seek Banda's extradition to face trial for the charges against him.
Source - newsday
