Court denies bail to Zambia Air Force officer accused of sexually abusing biological daughter, as victim allegedly pregnant

A Zambia Air Force (ZAF) soldier accused of sexually abusing his biological daughter has been denied bail, with the court citing the risk of witness tampering.

The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court is set to hear evidence in the case against George Mulinganiza, 41, a flight sergeant stationed at Twin Palm, who faces one count of incest under Section 159 (1) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

Despite pleading not guilty, Mulinganiza’s bail application was rejected by Magistrate Kawama Mwamfuli, who ruled that his release could compromise the case, given that some key witnesses include his wife, the victim’s biological mother, and other individuals from ZAF Twin Palm.

State prosecutor Joe Phiri strongly opposed the bail request, arguing that Mulinganiza’s return home could intimidate the victim and other witnesses.

“For the best interest of the child, bail should not be granted. The accused resides in the same house as some of the witnesses, including the victim’s mother. If bail is granted, strict conditions must be put in place to prevent interference,” Phiri submitted.

However, the defense countered that the victim had been relocated to a safe place unknown to the accused, reducing any risk of interference.

Despite this argument, Magistrate Mwamfuli sided with the prosecution, ruling that the potential for witness tampering remained too high.

The trial has been scheduled for March 12 and 17.

According to a police statement, the victim is allegedly pregnant.

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