One of the most remote places on earth, Katima Mulilo, capital of Namibia‘s Zambezi Region, is in the news. Katima Mulilo has a population of about 50,000 people.

A combined police force from Namibia and Zambia is investigating killings in the Zambezi Region for the alleged harvesting of body organs and other body parts. Reportedly, most victims are children and vulnerable people.

The Zambezi Region, one of Namibia’s fourteen regions, is located in the north-eastern part of the country along the Zambezi River. Until 2013 it was known as the Caprivi Region, named after the Caprivi Strip, a narrow strip of land, protruding into three neighboring countries, Botswana to the south and Angola and Zambia to the north.
(FVDK)

Zambian and Namibian police investigate ritual killings

Published: February 18, 2025
By: Namibia Press Agency

The Zambian police have launched an urgent joint investigation with the Namibian Police into killings in the Zambezi region for the alleged harvesting of body parts and organs.

The victims are said to be mostly children and vulnerable people.

The body parts are believed to be sold or used in traditional rituals.

The investigation was prompted by a viral social media video shared on Monday, showing a handcuffed man being interrogated in Silozi by suspected Zambian police officers.

In the footage, a suspect confesses to collaborating with a resident of the Zambezi region to kidnap a child, murder them, and dismember their body.

The suspect also names a village in the Zambezi region and associates involved in the trade.

He further alleges that a child’s body was burned after their organs were removed and that he was paid N$5 000 for his role in the crime.

Katima Mulilo Police Station commander chief inspector Charles Mayumbelo has confirmed the joint investigation, but was hesitant to share more information.

“This is a very serious and sensitive issue that we are dealing with right now.

“We will contact you when we have all the necessary information,” he says.

Source: Zambian and Namibian police investigate ritual killings