By Respite Kaoma,
Police on the Copperbelt have arrested 24-year-old Kennedy Kasanda Mwansa, an alleged leader of the notorious “Ba Zale” gang, in connection with several offences including aggravated robbery, vandalism, and unlawful wearing of military uniform.
Copperbelt Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi confirmed the arrest and disclosed details of the charges in an interview with Mafken News.
Mr. Yuyi said one of the cases dates back to January 7, 2026, around 19:00 hours in Section B of Kantanshi Township in Mufulira, where complainant Ephraim Simbule was allegedly attacked and robbed of K1,805 by a group armed with machetes and catapults, reportedly led by Kasanda.
He explained that following investigations, police — with assistance from the complainant — arrested 25-year-old Terry Ndhlovu, commonly known as “Strong Government,” of Section F in Kankoyo Township, Mufulira. Ndhlovu was jointly charged with other suspects still at large and has since appeared in court.
Mr. Yuyi said a manhunt for Kasanda eventually led to his arrest on May 7, 2026, at House Number F/30 in Kankoyo Township, Mufulira. He has since been jointly charged with Terry Ndhlovu and other unidentified accomplices in connection with the aggravated robbery case.
The Police Commanding Officer further revealed that Kasanda is also facing a second count of aggravated robbery linked to an incident that occurred on April 1, 2025, at House Number ADD 409/C in Kankoyo Township, where Bright Musonda was allegedly robbed of K33,000 cash.
He said Kasanda has additionally been jointly charged with unknown persons for the unauthorized wearing of military uniform under the Public Order Act in February 2025, a matter in which he has already appeared before the courts.
Mr. Yuyi added that the suspect was also arrested and jointly charged with others for vandalism committed in Chingola in 2023. He said Kasanda was later bonded and is currently appearing before the Kitwe High Court over the matter.
Commissioner Yuyi stated that the suspects had been on the police wanted list and assured members of the public that police would continue pursuing other suspects still on the run.
All the matters are currently before the courts.
-MAFKEN NEWS