Seventeen families in Kayombu, Kabompo District, remain homeless after their houses were set on fire by known individuals, yet police have failed to investigate or arrest the perpetrators.
The incident, which occurred on June 27, 2024, followed reports that Chief Chiyengele’s palace had been burned down, allegedly by some Lunda individuals. Instead of identifying and arresting those responsible, police indiscriminately raided Lunda villages, fǐring tear gas and forcing residents to flee into the bush. This allowed individuals linked to the Chiyengele family to burn 17 Lunda family homes in Katembu village.
Reports indicate that the arson destroyed property worth an estimated K3 million, including K47,610 in cash, food reserves, household items, school materials, and national registration cards (NRCs). Despite victims reporting the matter to Kabompo police, no meaningful action has been taken. Even after a follow-up by victim Ephraim Katembu in September 2024, no statements were recorded, and officers never visited the crime scene.
Mr. Katembu and other affected residents claim they have identified 26 individuals responsible for the attacks but say police have ignored their complaints. Fearing further attacks, many victims continue to live in the bush.
When the victims took their case to the North-Western Division Command in Solwezi on September 16, 2024, they were referred to Zambezi Police Station. However, on September 22, 2024, the Officer Commanding at Zambezi failed to assist them and instead sent them back to Kabompo police. Following further pressure, Kabompo police finally dispatched officers to Kayombu on October 7, 2024, but they only took pictures of the burnt houses without interviewing victims or witnesses.
Among those affected are Esther Katembu, Ackim Kazungu, Suzan Chiyeng’i, Rotan Katembu, Miriam Katembu, and Lydia Katembu, who all say police have neglected their complaints without explanation.
The situation worsened in January 2025 when more homes were set ablaze, shops looted, and maize fields burned, all allegedly by individuals linked to the Chiyengele family. Reports also indicate that an elderly woman, Ms. Benia Chipawa, was s£xually ássaulted by seven individuals she identified from Chiyengele village.
A total of 29 structures, including 12 homes and 17 kitchen shelters, were destroyed in Katembu and Kapinga villages. Ten shops were also looted and demolished, their iron sheets and merchandise taken. Victims include Manasi Katembu, Benny Kalolu, Arnold Katembu, Hope Kalolu, and others.
Another Katembu family member who has been advocating for police action on behalf of his family, Mr. Crispin Katembu, expressed frustration that the police seem to be siding with the perpetrators rather than protecting the victims. He called on the UPND government and the Inspector General of Police to intervene before further vi0lence erupts.
“We urge the IG to personally visit Kayombu and witness the lawlessness his officers have allowed. If nothing is done, more atrócities may be committed against the Lunda people while the police stand by and watch,” he said.
