By Beatrice Chabaya
The Human Rights Commission has condemned Zambia Police Service over ongoing violations of fundamental human rights.
HRC chairperson Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo has expressed deep concern over reports of extrajudicial k!lllings, arbitrary arrests, detentions, and t0rture perpetrated by the police.
The Commission has urged the police force to adhere to their constitutional duty of upholding the Bill of Rights while enforcing the law.
“Cases of officers reportedly using live ammunition against unarmed suspects and engaging in acts of torture during arrests and interrogations have raised alarms, indicating a troubling trend of human rights abuses,” she stated.
The Commission says it is actively investigating numerous cases of alleged rights violations, including extrajudicial k!llings and inhumane treatment of suspects.
They have called upon individuals or institutions with information on such violations to come forward and report to the Commission.
Dr Sambo has further appealed to the Inspector General of Police to demonstrate commitment and leadership in ending police brutality and other forms of rights violations.
She reiterated the commission’s readiness to collaborate with the police in training officers on human rights-based policing techniques.
Dr. Sambo emphasized the importance of thorough investigations to ensure accountability for all perpetrators of rights violations, to prevent impunity within the police force.
©️ Zambia Reports 2024