Teenage girl found dead near Kamwala South Secondary School, police launch investigations! Kabwata Police Station has launched investigations into the suspected murder of a 16-year-old girl, whose lifeless body was discovered near Luckson Mapushi Police Post within Kamwala South Secondary School premises.
The body was found by four juvenile boys, aged 10, 12, and two aged 13, who were on their way to Kamwala South Primary School. The children, who were playing as they walked to school, stumbled upon the deceased lying in a small grassy area behind a heap of blocks. The victim was dressed in a Kamulanga Secondary School uniform.
Police believe the incident occurred between 18:00 hours on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, and 09:00 hours on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
Victim’s Last Moments Before Disappearance
Preliminary investigations have identified the deceased as Blessings Malekati, a Grade 11 student at Kamulanga Secondary School.
According to her parents, Thomas Meleki and Jane Mulenga, Blessings returned home from school at approximately 18:00 hours on Wednesday, March 5.
Teenage girl found dead
Shortly after arriving, she changed into a maroon hooded jacket and a pair of white plastic shoes (commonly known as bikiloni) before being sent by her mother to buy charcoal, sachets of water, and tomatoes from a nearby shop.
However, she never returned home.
After waiting for a reasonable amount of time, her parents began searching for her in the neighborhood but were unable to find her. The family then reported her missing early Thursday morning at Maxwell Sibongo Police Post.
Crime Scene Findings
Upon arrival at the scene, police officers found Blessings’ body lying on the green grass, facing upwards.
The plastic bag containing the items she had been sent to purchase—charcoal, sachets of water, and tomatoes—was found nearby.
Officers noted disturbing details:
- Her pants were slightly pulled down to her knees.
- Mucus was visible on her nose.
Following this discovery, police transported her body to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Mortuary, where a postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
Police Call for Public Assistance in the Investigation
The Zambia Police Service has strongly condemned this brutal act, assuring the public that investigations are ongoing.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident, any suspicious activity in the area, or possible suspects to come forward and assist in the investigation.
“We call on members of the public to provide any relevant information that may help us bring the perpetrators to justice. You can report to any nearest police station,” a police spokesperson stated.
Community Shocked and Demands Justice
The tragic murder of Blessings Malekati has sent shockwaves through Kamwala South and surrounding areas. Parents, teachers, and students have expressed deep concern over the safety of young girls and the increasing cases of violence against children.
“This is heartbreaking. A young girl left home for a simple errand and never returned. We demand justice and tighter security measures,” said a concerned resident.
Others are urging local authorities to enhance security patrols in Kamwala South and other vulnerable areas, especially near schools and residential neighborhoods.
“We need better lighting in public spaces, more security patrols, and strict monitoring of criminals who prey on children,” another resident added.
Rising Concerns Over Gender-Based Violence and Child Safety
The brutal killing of Blessings highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and crimes against children.
Organizations advocating for child safety and women’s rights have urged law enforcement to take swift action in identifying and arresting those responsible.
Some community members are calling for increased sensitization programs in schools to educate students on personal safety, danger awareness, and reporting suspicious activities.
What Happens Next?
- Police investigations continue, with forensic experts analyzing evidence from the crime scene.
- A postmortem will be conducted at UTH Mortuary to determine the cause of death.
- Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas to identify any leads.
- Police have assured the public that they will not rest until the culprits are brought to justice.
The tragic death of Blessings Malekati serves as a painful reminder of the dangers young girls face daily. The community, authorities, and organizations must now work together to ensure justice is served and improve security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
