Monze taxi driver sues State for K1.5 million after mistaken-identity shooting by anti-robbery squad

Dallen Mweemba, a taxi driver from Monze district in Southern Province, has filed a lawsuit against the State, seeking over K1.5 million in damages for life-altering injuries he sustained in a misfire incident involving the Anti-Robbery Squad, commonly known as “C5.”

On July 2, 2021, what began as a routine taxi fare quickly turned into a nightmare.

Mweemba had been asked to drive a passenger to Namwala district, who brought along a friend for additional security.

Upon arrival, as Mweemba parked near a bar, an unidentified vehicle approached and its occupants opened fire on his taxi.

In a bid to escape, Mweemba and his friend fled, seeking safety at a nearby filling station.

However, their attempt was short-lived; the shooters pursued them, causing Mweemba’s car to overturn multiple times.

While his friend managed to escape, Mweemba was captured, handcuffed and severely beaten by C5 officers—who only later disclosed they had mistaken him for a suspect.

In a shocking twist, the officers discovered during the assault that their intended target was already in custody.

Despite this, the beating continued until Mweemba lost consciousness.

He regained consciousness at a Namwala clinic, handcuffed to his bed and was later transferred to Monze General Hospital, where he learned the extent of his injuries.

Mweemba now lives with permanent disabilities, including a metal plate in his leg to assist with mobility and enduring pain that has reshaped his life.

He is demanding K1.5 million in compensation for assault, battery and his lasting injuries, along with K7,500 in special damages, lost future earnings and interest.

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