Chisekesi Police Post gutted by fire, arson suspected

The Zambia Police Service has launched investigations into a suspected case of arson after Chisekesi Police Post in Monze District was gutted by fire in the early hours of Friday.

The fire which started around 02:00 hours was reported to Monze Police Station by 29-year-old Chisekesi resident Nchimunya Dokoola of Location Compound.

A combined team of officers from Monze Police Station and firefighters from the Monze Town Council Fire Brigade rushed to the scene and managed to put out the blaze before it spread further.

Preliminary investigations point to a deliberate act.

Police discovered a foreign padlock placed on the grill door one not recognised by officers assigned to the post.

An empty container suspected to have held flammable liquid was also retrieved near the building raising further suspicion of intentional wrongdoing.

The fire damaged office equipment, records and one firearm while other property was secured and remains untouched.

Southern Province Commanding Officer Moono Namalongo confirmed the incident and says a full investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and bring the perpetrators to justioce.

According to residents in the area, several loud explosions were heard as the fire spread through the building.

Area Councillor, Mundia Hamaundu says no life has been lost. -Chikuni Community radio