Former Zambian Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya Dies in Police Security Operation

Mutotwe Kafwaya, the former Zambian Minister of Transport and Communications, has died during a security operation conducted by the police, authorities confirmed. The operation took place in Kafwaya's home province of Northern Province.

Police disclosed that the former minister was fatally shot during what they described as a "firefight" at a lodge in Mpika. Law enforcement officials stated they were investigating reports of individuals "mobilising firearms" for unspecified activities when they encountered resistance.

Kafwaya had been out of public sight for an unspecified period, prompting growing calls from the public and political figures for information regarding his location. His family had previously expressed concern about his safety, alleging he had been abducted.

The incident has drawn scrutiny, with opposition parties and human rights organisations likely to demand a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into the circumstances of Kafwaya’s death and the necessity of the use of lethal force during the operation.