In a dramatic turn of events, Kazungula Police have apprehended two men involved in a heated succession dispute over the Moomba Chiefdom in Southern Province.
According to Southern Province Commanding Officer Auxension Daka, said the suspects, Gabriel Moomba, 52, and Philip Moyo, 48, were arrested in the early hours of September 4th, 2024, following allegations of impersonation and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
Mr. Daka explained that Gabriel Moomba, a resident of Lukena Village in Kazungula District, is accused of impersonating the rightful heir to the Moomba chieftaincy.
“Mr. Moomba has been performing the duties of Chief Moomba since May 26th, 2024, despite a court ruling that awarded the chieftaincy to Ms. Doreen Siita,” he said.
“Mr Daka said the the Court of Appeals had earlier confirmed Ms. Siita as the legitimate successor to the throne, a decision that was officially recognized by the Government of Zambia during a ceremony at Lukena Palace on May 26th, 2024.
“Despite this ruling, Mr. Moomba, who claims his position as the eldest son of the late Chief Moomba, continued to act as chief, prompting the police to intervene,” Mr. Daka added. He noted that “Mr. Moomba has been charged with impersonation under Section 12 of Cap 287 of the Laws of Zambia,” he said.
Mr. Daka also reported that in the same operation, police arrested Philip Moyo, a close ally of Mr. Moomba, who has been vocal in opposing the installation of Chieftainess Siita.
"Mr. Moyo has been charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of peace under Section 178 of Cap 87 of the Laws of Zambia,” he said.
Mr. Daka confirmed that a third suspect, identified as Smart Moomba, is currently on the run, and authorities have launched a manhunt to bring him to justice.
“The arrests took place at Chief Moomba’s Palace in Kazungula District during an operation that spanned the night of September 3rd and the early hours of September 4th,” Mr. Daka stated.
He added both Mr. Moomba and Mr. Moyo are currently being held at Kazungula Police Station, where they await formal charges.
“This incident underscores the ongoing tensions within the Moomba Chiefdom, where the rightful leadership has been a contentious issue,” Mr. Daka said.
He said that the situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as investigations continue.
Mr. Daka assured the public that the police are committed to maintaining peace and order in the region.
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