Lusaka 26th February, 2025- The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) strongly condemns the heinous murder of Micheal Simuntala, a 25-year-old man with albinism in Nakonde district.
This brutal killing, suspected to be a ritual murder, highlights the persistent violence faced by persons with disabilities, particularly those with albinism.
We are deeply disturbed by the gruesome mutilations inflicted upon Micheal’s body. The removal of his upper front teeth is a particularly cruel act that highlights the depravity of the perpetrators.
The ZAPD urges the Police to take immediate and decisive action to apprehend the suspects, Willard Sinkala, Chimwemwe Ng’andu, and Misheck Simukonda, and bring them to justice. We demand that the police exhaust all avenues in investigating this heinous crime and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
ZAPD also calls upon stakeholders to address the systemic and deeply ingrained discrimination faced by persons with disabilities, particularly those with albinism. This includes providing adequate protection and support services, raising awareness about the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
The Agency will work tirelessly with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served and those responsible for such heinous crimes are held accountable. To the perpetrators, we say: you will face the full force of the law, and you will be brought to justice.
Issued By;
Frankson Musukwa
Director General
ZAMBIA AGENCY FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES