POLICE FOIL ARMED BREAK-IN AT TRADE KINGS, RECOVER EXPLOSIVES AND OFFENSIVE WEAPONS
Police in Kitwe have foiled an attempted break-in at the Trade Kings warehouse and arrested a 43-year-old man after a group of suspected criminals allegedly entered the premises armed with various implements.
The incident happened around 00:50 hours on September 13th, 2026, at the Trade Kings premises and was reported to Kitwe Central Police Station around 05:30 hours.
Police received information from a security guard employed by Omega Security and deployed at Trade Kings that suspected criminals had entered the warehouse armed with machetes, industrial cutters, catapults and suspected explosives.
Police say the group allegedly intended to break into the company’s safe.
The incident was first detected by the company’s CCTV operator, who alerted the security guards. The matter was then reported to Zamtan Police Post under Kitwe Central Police Station.
Police officers, accompanied by members of the Community Crime Prevention Unit, swiftly responded and intercepted the suspected criminals.
One suspect, identified as 43-year-old Chanda Chewe, who told Police that he was from Mpika, was apprehended.
A search allegedly resulted in the recovery of suspected explosives and detonators contained in a small black bag, together with other implements believed to have been intended for breaking into the premises.
Scenes of Crime officers also attended the scene and processed it, leading to the recovery of various breaking implements.
Police have opened investigations for Attempting to Commit an Offence, Being in Possession of Offensive Weapons and Unlawful Possession of Explosives.
The suspect remains in Police custody as investigations continue, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals believed to have been involved.
Copperbelt Division Police Commissioner Rae Hamoonga has warned criminals targeting businesses and commercial premises that such activities will not be tolerated.
Commissioner Hamoonga has urged business owners, security guards and members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the Police.
Police say information provided by members of the public can help prevent crime and protect lives and property.
The Zambia Police Service says it will continue working with the business community, security companies and members of the public to bring suspected criminals to justice.