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Police in Solwezi District, North-Western Province, have arrested seven Philippine nationals aged between 40 and 55 years for alleged indecent assault.
The suspects, all employees of Kansanshi Mines, are accused of luring Zambian females to lodges in Solwezi for alleged prostitution-related activities.
Zambia Police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, disclosed in a statement on Monday that 13 Zambian females, whose ages are yet to be determined, are also in custody for protection and as part of ongoing investigations.
“The suspects are identified as Zaldy Alarcon, Michael Lotino, Del Mundo, Vincent Barbaras, Jonathan Nelmida, Taiwan Jonard Paniro, and Edwin Rosas,” Hamoonga said, adding that Rosas faces an additional charge of assaulting a police officer.
Hamoonga revealed that the police acted on credible intelligence received on Sunday morning from concerned members of the public.
The information pointed to a group of Philippine nationals allegedly exploiting young girls in Solwezi.
Officers from the Criminal Investigations Department mobilized and raided Lukumo Lodge, located in a low-density area of Solwezi.
The suspects were found in compromising situations with the females in separate rooms.
“All individuals involved were apprehended and are now in custody,” Hamoonga said, confirming that statements had been recorded from the females and medical examinations ordered to verify their ages.
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The Zambia Police Service strongly condemned the acts, pledging a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.
Hamoonga commended the public for their vigilance and encouraged continued collaboration between citizens and law enforcement in combating crime.
“We urge all citizens to report any suspected cases of exploitation, abuse, or criminal activities to the nearest police station. The protection of vulnerable individuals remains a shared responsibility,” he emphasized.
The matter remains under investigation.
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