HRC Secures Release of Cyber Crime Suspect
The Human Rights Commission (HRC) of Zambia has successfully secured the release of 28-year-old Jeremiah Nkunika, who was arrested on Monday, May 12, under the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.
Nkunika was detained at Kabwata Police Station and charged with Prohibition of Harassment and Humiliation under Section 22 of the new legislation.
His release was facilitated by the Commission this afternoon following sustained engagement with the Zambia Police Service, and he was granted police bond around 13:00 hours pending a possible court appearance on May 29, 2025.
In a critical development, the HRC intervened to challenge restrictive surety requirements, successfully advocating for the acceptance of Mr. Peter Nkunika, Jeremiah’s father, as a surety despite his non-government employment status.
Mr. Nkunika, a well-known figure on Cairo Road near Photo Bank, was deemed credible and traceable, countering initial police demands for a government-employed surety.
Earlier, the Commission visited Jeremiah in custody to assess his condition and rights in accordance with Article 13 of the Bill of Rights, alongside Section 33 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
Based on its findings, the HRC promptly engaged law enforcement at both Kabwata Police Station and Police Headquarters to secure an amicable resolution.
The HRC has commended the Zambia Police for their professionalism and adherence to legal procedure, affirming that the Commission will continue monitoring the case to ensure constitutional rights under Articles 13 and 18 are upheld throughout the judicial process.
