Journalists from Bulozi Television in Mongu District, Western Province, were harassed and nearly physically attacked on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, during a live broadcast covering the demolition of makeshift structures at the illegal Kashumba Market.
The media crew comprising reporters Lubinda Kawana, Sibongile Lombanya, Ashbel Sibulwakabi, and cameraman Vanson Choomba was targeted by suspected junkies and call boys who accused them of contributing to the closure of the market.
The situation turned volatile during the live coverage as the group began verbally abusing the journalists and threatening them with violence. The journalists were forced to halt the broadcast and flee for safety. They found temporary refuge in a Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Toyota Land Cruiser, whose driver intervened by stopping and hooting to scare off the attackers.
In the chaos, cameraman Vanson Choomba was seen on the live stream struggling to protect his equipment from damage while evading stones thrown by the unruly youths.
Speaking after the incident, Lubinda Kawana who said he was struck on the back expressed concern over the growing threats journalists face in the line of duty. He called for increased protection for media professionals, especially when covering potentially hostile situations.
Mongu Municipal Council Public Relations Officer Faustina Litwai, who was also nearly attacked by the same group while taking photographs, confirmed the incident. She noted that while Council Police officers were present, they were overwhelmed and lost focus on ensuring the journalists’ safety as tensions escalated.
Ms. Litwai further clarified that despite the violent behavior of the suspected call boys and junkies, the traders themselves remained cooperative and non-violent during the demolition process.
The eviction followed a two-week ultimatum issued by the Mongu Municipal Council, which expired on July 15, 2025. The notice required traders to vacate the privately-owned land at Kashumba Market and relocate to the newly constructed Kasima Bulk Market or other designated trading areas.
Although no journalists sustained injuries, the harassment they endured is a violation of media freedom and highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for journalists in the field.