By ZR Reporter
Three people have allegedly taken their own lives within a space of one week in Chama District, with the latest involving a 77-year-old man who allegedly consumed maize preservative tablets after some villagers accused him of practising witchcraft.
The latest incident comes just days after a 16-year-old Grade Seven pupil allegedly d!ed by su!cide after her mother advised her to complete her education before getting married.
In a separate incident, a second-year student from Chama studying at Chipata Trades Training Institute also allegedly took his own life following a dispute with his pregnant girlfriend over an abortion.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba has confirmed the latest incident, which occurred between 3rd July, 2026, around 13:00 hours and 4th July, 2026, around 14:00 hours in Chimbilima Village in Chief Kambombo’s Chiefdom.
Mr. Mweemba identified the deceased as Pina Zimba, a 77-year-old peasant farmer.
He said on 3rd July, 2026, around 13:00 hours, Mr. Zimba was heard speaking to himself, stating that he had consumed poisonous maize preservative tablets after some villagers allegedly accused him of practising witchcraft.
Mr. Zimba was taken to Chama District Hospital, where he was treated as an outpatient and later discharged.
However, on 4th July, 2026, around 14:00 hours, while resting under a mango tree at his home, he was found dead.
Mr. Mweemba said police have since opened an inquiry file, and investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Zambia Reports l 5th July, 2026