Zambian Men Arrested for Alleged Witchcraft Plot Against President Hichilema

Police accuse two suspects of being hired to harm the president using charms, with connections to a fugitive lawmaker's family.

Zambian police arrested Jasten Mabulesse Candunde and Leonard Phiri on charges of practicing witchcraft and possession of charms, including a live chameleon.
The suspects allegedly planned to harm President Hakainde Hichilema using witchcraft, according to a police statement.
Authorities claim the suspects were hired by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of fugitive MP Jay Banda, who escaped custody in August while facing robbery charges.
Nelson Banda, who is reportedly on the run, is accused of orchestrating the plot and promising the suspects over $7,000 for their mission.
The arrests highlight Zambia's ongoing societal tensions regarding witchcraft, which remains a deeply rooted belief for many in the country.