Zambia (Kanyama): Police in Kanyama yesterday, on Friday, January 26, 2024, in the evening, received a report regarding an incident of impersonation of Vernon Muntengu, aged 33, a resident of Kanyama Site.
Lusaka service reported that a male individual, identified as Mathews Hope Sobanuka, aged 26 and of Congolese Nationality from Maheba Refugee Camp, was impersonating a public officer.
Sobanuka had falsely claimed to be an officer from the Department of Immigration, with his nefarious activities targeted towards unsuspecting foreign nationals who are renowned businessmen. Using threats of arrests related to immigration formalities, his intention was to coerce and amass money from those who would be engulfed in fear.
Muntengu reported that the incident occurred on Friday, January 26, 2024, around 3 p.m. in Kanyama Site and Service. The suspect, dressed in a black T-shirt and a black cape labelled “Immigration,” harassed and threatened fellow foreign nationals who owned shops in the community.
Prompt action by concerned members of the community led to the alerting of Police Officers, who swiftly made a follow-up and successfully apprehended the suspect.
A docket for the case has been opened to arrest and charge Mathews Hope Sobanuka with impersonation formally. As a law enforcement agency, we would like to assure the public that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and appropriate legal action will be taken against the suspect.
“We commend the community members’ vigilance and cooperation in bringing this matter to our attention. We encourage the public to continue working hand-in-hand with the Zambia Police Service to maintain the safety and security of our communities, said Zambia Police.
Moreover, fraud and crime cases are increasing in Lusaka. Zambia Police tighten their security as murder and robbery are common in the area.
One of the residents said, “he met with Mathews, and he asked for money, but he refused as he had no money that day; then Mathews gave him a warning that he would kill me, but I think Karma served him what he deserved.”