By Our Reporter
A Zambian police officer has appeared in court after allegedly sharing her private, intimate photos in a paramilitary WhatsApp group, sparking disciplinary and legal proceedings within the force.
The officer, identified as Nyarai Kambelembele, appeared before Lusaka Resident Magistrate Peter Mungala, where she was charged with two counts related to the circulation of obscene material.
According to court documents, the first charge accuses Kambelembele of possessing obscene pictures or videos likely to corrupt public morals, while the second charge alleges that she distributed the same content in a WhatsApp group named Paramilitary Jubilee Intake 51/52.
The incident reportedly caused shock among members of the group, which is composed of serving and former paramilitary officers. The shared images quickly spread beyond the intended recipients, prompting an internal investigation and her eventual arrest.
Sources within the police service described the matter as “embarrassing” and “damaging to the force’s image,” as it raised questions about professionalism and digital conduct among officers.
Kambelembele appeared in court without legal representation, and the court adjourned the case to allow her to prepare her defense.
The prosecution stated that her actions violated Zambia’s Obscenity and Prohibition of Obscene Materials Act, which criminalizes the creation, possession, or distribution of content deemed indecent or immoral.
The case has reignited public debate in Zambia over the boundaries of privacy and the consequences of sharing explicit material online — even in closed groups.
If convicted, Kambelembele faces potential jail time or a fine. The Zambia Police Service has not yet issued an official statement on whether she will face internal disciplinary measures in addition to the court proceedings.
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