"Family identified body": Former transport and communication minister shot dead

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- The Central Joint Operations Committee confirmed the identity of the man fatally wounded during a joint security operation in Kabulonga, Lusaka, on August 14, 2026

- Security agencies had been monitoring individuals considered to be of national security interest since November 2023 before launching the operation

- 11 suspects were apprehended at the premises, including three former commandos and two retired police officers, in connection with alleged treason offences

Zambia's Central Joint Operations Committee (CJOC) has confirmed that former transport and communication minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was fatally wounded during a joint intelligence-led security operation carried out in the Kabulonga area of Lusaka on August 14, 2026.

Inspector General of Police Graphel C. Musamba, speaking on behalf of the CJOC and Service Chiefs, said a joint task force that included officers from the Drug Enforcement Commission proceeded to a property in Kabulonga at approximately 19:30 hours.

The operation was triggered by intelligence gathered in the wake of an earlier task force activity in Lusaka during which an unknown amount of money was recovered.

Security Agencies Had Been Monitoring Suspects Since 2023

Musamba said the security agencies had been keeping watch on individuals regarded as being of national security concern since November 2023. Upon reaching the premises, officers were met with armed resistance from unidentified individuals, prompting the task force to return fire. One man sustained fatal gunshot wounds, and a firearm was recovered at the scene.

The wounded man was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Authorities initially could not confirm his identity.

It was only after social media reports emerged about Kafwaya's disappearance that efforts were made to establish whether the deceased matched his description. Kafwaya's family was subsequently contacted and formally identified his body on Wednesday evening.

11 suspects held over treason allegations

Eleven people were detained at the property during the operation. Among them, according to the CJOC, were three former commandos with specialised military training and two retired police officers.

All 11 are being held in connection with alleged offences relating to treason and any other charges that may arise as investigations progress.

"Among the suspects were three ex-commandos with specialised special forces skills, presenting a potential national security risk, with connections to hostile groupings. These individuals possess extensive military skills and were trained as snipers and in marksmanship with small- and high-calibre weapons, hijacking and assassination skills," Musamba said.

Kafwaya was a prominent political figure who had aligned himself with Brian Mundubile's opposition political camp ahead of the 2026 elections.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.