Five men have died in Chief Siachitema’s area of Kalomo District, Southern Province, after consuming a locally brewed illicit beer known as Chijabbo.
Southern Province Police Commanding Officer Moono Namalongo confirmed the incident, saying the victims complained of severe stomach pain and partial blindness before their deaths.
The deceased have been identified as:
Honest Bulongo, 46
Wonder Bulongo, 48
Balance Chalubola, 70
Mpundu Matiya, 35
Melga Mwaanga, 46
Mr. Namalongo explained that on December 7, 2025, the five, together with four others, prepared the illicit brew using sweetened powder, methylated spirit, and other unknown substances at Nakanyanga Village.
On December 8, Honest Bulongo developed severe stomach pains and died at Nalucha Rural Health Centre. The same day, Wonder Bulongo died after suffering headache and partial blindness, while Chalubola died at Choma General Hospital after complaining of weakness.
On December 9, Matiya and Mwaanga also developed stomach pains and later died.
Police have since opened an inquiry file and investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
