INSPECTOR General of Police Kakoma Kanganja has told officers to always carry with them policing equipment such as teargas, buttons and handcuffs when on duty and use them when situations demand.
In a statement this afternoon, Kanganja stated that “it is quite disappointing that some members of political parties have taken the restraint and tolerance being exhibited by Police officers for weakness”.
He was commenting on the fracas which happened in Kitwe on the Copperbelt between police and UPND cadres which resulted in the injury of one officer on Friday
Kanganja said it was evident that some cadres were daring police officers on duty by engaging in public misconduct and in some instances attacking them.
He pointed out that the Kitwe where some cadres took to the streets and charged towards police officers and began throwing stones at them resulting in some sustaining injuries was proof that cadres were daring Police.
“I am reminding political parties and the general public at large that assaulting , resisting or wilfully obstructing police officers in their due execution of duty is a serious criminal offence punishable by law. What happend in Kitwe was a clear indication of schemes aimed at promoting break down in law and order under the guise of politiking which we shall not take lightly,” he said.
“Police officers are reminded to always carry with them policing equipment which government has procured for them such as long button, handcuffs and teargas canisters whenever they are on duty and should use them when situations demand,” Kanganja added.
He said Police officers had a constitutional duty to enforce Laws to safeguard public security and order, therefore, they should be given space to do their job.
“Thuggery conduct such as the one exhibited by political cadres in Kitwe shall not be tolerated by my command and I want all those that were involved in the fracas to be dealt with accordingly,” he warned.
Kanganja called on officers to remain firm on the ground and ensure that all forms of lawlessness was immediately thwarted by bringing to book all offenders .
“I am advising Political party leaders to tame their members and ensure that they engage in responsible and peaceful politics as stipulated in Article 60 (3) (b) of the Constitution as opposed to the exhibited thuggery behaviour,” he said.
“The Zambia Police will not tolerate anyone that would deliberately disregard provisions of the law under the guise of politics and people should not complain of intimidation when officers react. Those that would be found wanting would be dealt with firmly within the confines of the law. You are forewarned,” added Kanganja.
Kalemba March 14, 2021
