PRESS RELEASE – ZP,ZRL POLICE APPREHEND EIGHT SUSPECTS FOR THEFT OF RAIL AND WAGON MATERIALS
PRESS RELEASE
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
KABWE, Zambia , 7th October, 2025 – The Zambia Police Service, in collaboration with the Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Police apprehended eight (8) suspects in connection with the theft of railway and wagon materials belonging to ZRL in Ndola’s Chipulukusu area.
The suspects , Simon Mashika, Luke Mbewe, Roderick Mulenga, Augustine Chisenga, Shadrick Mwansa, Alex Kalala, Ackim Musumali, and Hangala Phiri, who are employees of a named Multi -Purpose Cooperative contracted by ZRL to carry out track maintenance and rolling stock works have since been charged with theft by servant, contrary to the laws of Zambia.
During the joint security operation, a truck registration number BAL 7471 loaded with rail and wagon materials belonging to a named company which deals in scrap metal was impounded.
The coordinated effort between the two institutions led to the successful recovery of several railway and wagon parts, including stanchions, vertical levers, knuckles, sole plates, steel sleepers, and other wagon parts.
Further ,the operation led to the apprehension of a scrap metal buyer, a Zambian male identified as Musata Heads, aged 25 of Pamodzi Overspill, and a juvenile aged 14 of Chipulukusu, who have been turned into state witnesses to assist in the ongoing investigations.
Speaking on the matter, ZRL Managing Director Eng. Cuthbert Malindi commended the swift action by both the Zambia Police and ZRL Police, emphasizing that the company has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards theft and vandalism of railway property.
““Rail transport is a critical enabler of national development. Protecting railway assets is a shared responsibility, and we will continue to work with law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard railway assets as well as to ensure offenders face the full extent of the law. We would like to send a strong message that acts of thefts and sabotage will not be tolerated regardless of the offender,” said Eng. Malindi.
The apprehension of the suspects demonstrates the power of collaboration through the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between Zambia Railways Limited and Zambia Police Service in protecting railway property.
ZRL further appeals to members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving theft and vandalism of railway property. Communities are reminded that protecting railway infrastructure is vital for safe train operations and the country’s broader economic growth agenda.
Issued by:
Sombe Longwani – Ng’onga( Ms)
Manager Public Relations
Email: info@zrl.com.zm
