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Police in Chipata have detained a 38-year-old accountant in connection with the gruesome killing of 25-year-old Rhoda Munkombwe. The incident, which has shocked residents of Eastern Province, was reported by the victim’s father, Mr. Terry Munkombwe.
It is believed to have occurred between Thursday night and the early hours of Friday morning.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba, confirmed the development in a statement to the media. He said the murder took place at house number 5390B in Kanjala, Chipata district, where the victim was allegedly attacked.
“The suspect has been identified as Edward Mwanamuchele, aged 38, who is employed as an accountant at Horizon Company. He is accused of using a metal bar to assault the victim, resulting in fatal injuries,” Commander Mweemba said.
Police investigations indicate that Rhoda sustained a deep cut on the head, severe injuries on both legs, and multiple bruises across her body. “The extent of the injuries clearly points to a violent struggle,” Commander Mweemba added.
Preliminary information further revealed that Mwanamuchele had been living alone since August 5, after sending his wife away due to a dispute over rent. On the evening of August 28, at about 7:00 pm, he was seen entering his residence with a woman later identified as Rhoda.
According to the landlord, Mr. Moonga Ngobeka, 33, disturbing noises were heard from the house later that night around 11:30 pm.
When asked to open the door, the suspect allegedly claimed that he had misplaced his keys. Suspicious of the response, Ngobeka used his spare key and discovered the victim lying in a pool of blood near the entrance.
The landlord immediately contacted medical services, and an ambulance rushed Rhoda to Chipata Central Hospital. Sadly, she was pronounced dead on arrival.
“When I returned from the hospital, I found the suspect cleaning blood from the living room. That is when I quickly called the police,” Mr. Ngobeka explained.
Officers who arrived at the scene arrested the suspect after he reportedly attempted to flee. A search of the house revealed bloodstains in the bedroom, bathroom, and living room.
Commander Mweemba confirmed that Mwanamuchele is in custody and assisting police with investigations. “We want to assure the public that this matter is being treated with the seriousness it deserves. The suspect is in our custody, and we will not rest until justice is served for the victim and her family,” he said.
The body of the deceased has been deposited at Chipata Central Hospital mortuary, where a postmortem examination will be conducted.
Source: ghpage.com