Zambian Police Recover Body of 6-Year-Old Child Thrown into River by Stepmother
The Zambia Police Service has officially confirmed the recovery of the body of one of two children who were allegedly thrown into the Ngwerere River in Lusaka by their stepmother. The tragic incident, which has shocked the nation, occurred amid domestic tensions within a polygamous marriage.
Body of Six-Year-Old Matias Kamanga Located
In a detailed statement released by authorities, police reported that the body of six-year-old Matias Kamanga was successfully located at approximately 17:15 hours local time. This discovery came after search teams significantly expanded their operational area along the Ngwerere River, intensifying efforts to find the missing children.
The retrieval operation was a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies. The Chongwe Municipal Council Fire Brigade worked alongside the Zambia Army Marine Unit, with support and collaboration from officers of the Zambia Police Service. Following recovery, the body was transported to the University Teaching Hospital by police personnel for further medical examination and postmortem procedures.
Search Continues for Second Child
Search operations were temporarily suspended in the evening due to deteriorating lighting conditions and time constraints. However, efforts to locate the second child, aged two years, remain ongoing with intensified focus. Police have assured the public that every available resource is being deployed to recover the second victim's body.
Authorities have issued warnings urging community members to exercise extreme caution around water bodies while the search persists. The police spokesperson emphasized that safety measures are paramount during these operations.
Suspect in Custody as Investigation Deepens
Police have confirmed that the primary suspect, identified as 26-year-old Mary Kachilika of Meanwood Kwamwena Phase 4, remains in police custody. She is being held in connection with the alleged incident that has been described as particularly heinous by community leaders.
According to preliminary investigations, the children's father, 29-year-old Titus Kamanga, reported the incident to Chelstone Police Station. He alleged that Kachilika, who became his second wife in January of last year, acted out of deep-seated resentment and jealousy. The motive appears to stem from her inability to conceive children while her co-wife had successfully borne children, creating tension within the polygamous household.
Witness Accounts and Community Response
Police spokesperson Deputy Public Relations Officer Chipo Kaitisha provided additional details about the incident's discovery. The children's biological mother reportedly heard distressing cries and followed the sounds toward the riverbank. There, she encountered Kachilika being pursued by a local fisherman who allegedly witnessed the act and attempted to intervene.
The case has generated profound shockwaves across Zambia, with community leaders and residents describing the act as "unZambian" and demanding swift justice. Many have pointed to the dangers of unresolved disputes within polygamous marriages as a contributing factor that requires broader societal attention.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Investigations into the matter continue with multiple angles being explored. Police have not released specific details regarding potential charges against the suspect, stating that such determinations will follow the completion of ongoing inquiries and await postmortem results from medical examiners.
The Zambia Police Service has reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice is served in this heartbreaking case. Authorities have promised to provide regular updates to the public as the investigation progresses and additional information becomes available.
