Zambian Soldier Killed in Border Incident with DRC Troops

A tragic border confrontation in the Kawama area of Ndola, Copperbelt Province, on Sunday resulted in the death of a Zambian soldier and left another injured. 

The incident occurred during an anti-smuggling patrol conducted by the Zambia National Service (ZNS), as tensions flared between ZNS soldiers and their counterparts from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

According to a statement from Defence Minister Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, the clash unfolded after ZNS soldiers intercepted Zambian nationals attempting to smuggle mealie meal into the DRC. 

The smugglers escaped and sought refuge across the border, where they allegedly provided false information to DRC soldiers. 

The Congolese troops, believing ZNS personnel had crossed into their territory, demanded the return of the mealie meal and the disarmament of ZNS soldiers. A gunfire exchange ensued.

Tragically, Staff Sergeant Kaputa Corinthians sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at Kalewa Garrison Hospital, while Staff Sergeant Banda Jazz Joseph was injured but remains in stable condition.

The Zambian government, alongside its Congolese counterparts, has launched a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to determine the precise events that led to the escalation and to prevent future occurrences. 

Minister Lufuma assured citizens that the situation is now calm and reiterated the country’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.

President Hakainde Hichilema extended condolences to the family of the late Staff Sergeant Kaputa and wished Staff Sergeant Banda a speedy recovery. 

Minister Lufuma urged Zambians to respect trade regulations, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring food security by curbing smuggling activities.

The government has pledged full support to the affected families and promised further updates as investigations proceed.