Prime suspect in IBA murder case, Chipyoka, alleges rights violations, seeks release from detention

Francis Chipyoka, a primed suspect in the murder case at Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA), has requested the Lusaka High Court to grant a writ of habeas corpus to secure his release.

He argued that his ongoing detention infringed upon his constitutional rights, particularly the denial of access to legal representation.

Chipyoka was arrested on July 28, 2024, in Mansa in connection with the murder of IBA’s Director-General, Guntila Muleya, who was fatally shot.

The police reported apprehended Chipyoka while he was attempting to flee to Congo.

His legal team, led by Friday Mulenga from Messrs. Andrew Musukwa & Co, contended that Chipyoka’s detention at Emmasdale Police Station without charge was not only unlawful but also unconstitutional.

They asserted that despite their attempts to meet with Chipyoka, they have faced resistance and threats from the police.

Two letters have been sent to the Inspector-General of Police, Graphel Musamba, seeking intervention, but no response had been received.

The lawyers further claimed that Chipyoka’s vehicle was seized without a warrant and that he had yet to be charged or issued a warn and caution statement.

The ongoing denial of his right to legal representation, coupled with prolonged interrogations exceeding six hours, underscored the alleged abuse of power by the authorities, his lawyers argued.

They accused the police of violating their client’s constitutional rights and believed that the issuance of a writ of habeas corpus was crucial to prevent the miscarriage of justice.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.