A THING that started as social media fun and consequently tagged as ‘women supporting women’ has landed Socialite, Mutale Mwanza in Police cells after the tea she allegedly spewed on Social media against TV host, Chichi Daisy, Mwansa Lusumpa earned her free accommodation in the cold cells.
And now, Mutale is headed to the Courtroom where she is expected to stand alone, without her million followers to defend her allegations.
According to police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, Mutale, aged 37, harassed Lusumpa through social media, a crime that is contrary to Section 69 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021.
Hamoonga said on November 8, Mutale, using her Facebook page ‘Mutale Mwanza’ posted insulting and defamatory remarks about her which contained false suggestions that Lusumpa was engaged in illicit activities, accompanied by other libelous statement.
And two days later after the post, Lusumpa, who is a resident of Flat 4, Reasons Estate, in Chamba Valley, Lusaka, lodged a formal complaint concerning the allegations.
And upon receiving the report, police opened an inquiry and commenced investigations into the matter which led to the arrest of Mutale yesterday.
“ Ms. Mutale Melissa Mwanza, residing at Plot Number 1704, First Street, Ibex Hill, Lusaka, was formally interviewed, warned and cautioned, later charged and arrested for the offense of harassment utilising means of electronic communication under section 69 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act,” said Hamoonga.
He added that she was detained in police custody and later granted police bond as she is scheduled and expanded to appear in court soon, to defend her allegations.
Hamoonga further warned the public on the negative use of social media, warning them to exercise caution, responsibility, and respect for others when using electronic communication platforms.
He said harassment, including the dissemination of defamatory or abusive content, constitutes a serious offense under Zambian law and is punishable by law.
“The Police remains committed to ensuring that electronic communication platforms are not used to infringe upon the rights and dignity of others. Members of the public are encouraged to report such violations to law enforcement authorities,” said Hamoonga.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba November 21, 2024