KASAMA MAYOR ARRESTED OVER ALLEGED TRESPASS AT ACTING PS’ RESIDENCE  BEAUTY UNDI

Kasama Mayor Peter Chikweti-Yuda has found himself at the center of a mounting legal and political storm after being formally arrested and detained by the Zambia Police Service. The civic leader is facing allegations of criminal trespass contrary to Section 306 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, following an unauthorized entry into the private residence of Northern Province Acting Permanent Secretary, Beauty Undi-Phiri. According to police statements, the formal charges were laid after Ms. Undi-Phiri lodged an official complaint detailing an incident that transpired at her Kasama District residence. Zambia Police Service Public Relations Officer Godfrey Chilabi confirmed that the mayor was apprehended following thorough preliminary investigations into the occurrence. Investigators allege that Mr. Chikweti-Yuda, acting alongside individuals whose identities remain unconfirmed, breached the security of the acting permanent secretary's home with the intent to intimidate her and her family members. Law enforcement authorities have maintained that investigations are ongoing to track down and apprehend other suspected accomplices linked to the disturbance. The high-profile arrest has immediately sent shockwaves across Northern Province and the broader political landscape, highlighting simmering tensions between local government leadership and central government administrators. The incident dates back to post-election frictions in the region, where disagreements and allegations regarding administrative processes often spill over into the public sphere. Legal experts note that criminal trespass is a serious offense under Zambian jurisprudence, carrying potential custodial sentences if convictions are secured in a court of law. As Mr. Chikweti-Yuda remains in police custody awaiting formal court appearances, political observers and civil society actors are closely monitoring the developments. The case raises critical questions regarding the intersection