A GANG of five dangerous criminals have been permanently relieved of their life’s duties after their ‘mission impossible’ stunt ended in a bullet chorus conducted by Copperbelt Police in the bushes of Mushindamo District.
The deadly exchange of gunfire happened on Sunday after the gang, pretending to lead police to their boss Isaac Chibanda, alias “Jahman,” who then decided to play Rambo and Chuck Norris in the bush before his gang members attempted to flee.
Among those promoted to permanent silence included some serious CV holders in crime; Yoram Bwalya Simwanga, 29, who had been linked to multiple murders and aggravated robberies across the Copperbelt, Lusaka and Muchinga Provinces.
Also caught up in the heavenly relocation was Jasper Siulumbu, 35, John Sikapila Simukonda, 35, Simbeye Jason, 37 and Lawrence Siwale, 32, all key operatives in the gang that had terrorized mobile money operators and committed multiple murders, including those of 30-year-old Gift Chilambe and 28-year-old Francis Mbale in Chingola last month.
Copperbelt Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi said the five suspects were apprehended earlier and were accompanying police to Chibanda’s hideout when the drama unfolded.
“The suspects engaged officers in a gunfire exchange and tragically ended up fatally wounded,” Yuyi stated.
Recovered from the scene was a Smith and Wesson revolver loaded with live ammunition, an MC 23 pistol, a Toyota Allion motor vehicle fitted with fake registration plates, additional fake number plates, an axe, hammer, screwdriver, a black face mask, three jungle hats, and assorted clothing.
Spent AK-47 cartridges were also retrieved at the scene.
The rest of the gang’s commander, Chibanda, remains at large and a manhunt has since been launched.
Members of the public are strongly cautioned not to approach him under any circumstances, as he is considered extremely dangerous and armed.
“The bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited at Nchanga North General Hospital Mortuary pending postmortem examinations. Investigations are ongoing,” Yuyi added.
By George Musonda
Picture for illustration
Kalemba April 7, 2026
