By Arnold Tutu
A magistrate in Kaoma has been beaten by a convict shortly after delivering judgment at the Kaoma Subordinate Court.
Western Province Commissioner of Police RAE HAMOONGA confirmed the incident to ZNBC news, saying it occurred Tuesday, May 19, 2026, around 13:20 hours and was later reported at Kaoma Police Station at 17:00 hours.
Mr. HAMOONGA says Resident Magistrate PHELISTER KANTUMOYA, of Kaoma Township, had just convicted and sentenced JOE NALWENDO, aged 24 of Nkeyema District, to two years imprisonment for the offence of threatening violence.
Immediately after judgment was delivered, the convict allegedly became violent, jumped from the accused dock onto the magistrate’s bench and attacked her by squeezing her neck.
Mr. HAMOONGA said the magistrate sustained neck injuries and general body pains.
He said court orderlies quickly intervened and managed to restrain the convict before further harm could be caused.
Mr. HAMOONGA said the magistrate later reported the matter to police, where a docket was opened and she was issued with a medical report form for examination and treatment.
He said the suspect remains in lawful custody at Kaoma Correctional Facility, where he is already serving a custodial sentence.
Mr. HAMOONGA condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable and a threat to the justice system.
He said courts are sacred institutions that must be respected and protected at all times, adding that any attack on judicial officers is an attack on the rule of law.
Mr. HAMOONGA warned that police will not tolerate acts of violence or intimidation against judicial officers or any public servant performing lawful duties, and that offenders will face the full force of the law.
He further said security measures at court premises will be strengthened to safeguard officers and maintain public confidence in the justice system.
-ZNBC