Police probe Chongwe school gassing, 2 pupils nabbed
By Mast Reporter
POLICE in Chongwe have launched a manhunt for suspects behind a suspected gassing incident at Matipula Secondary School on Friday.
Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said 13 girls were affected and were subsequently taken to Chongwe District Hospital for medical attention.
Chilabi said eight of the pupils were discharged after treatment, while five remained admitted to the facility.
“The police are investigating a suspected incident of malicious administration of a noxious substance at Matipula Secondary School in Chongwe District. The incident occurred on May 22,2026 between 09:30 hours and 10:00 hours at the said school,” he said.
Chilabi said two male pupils aged 17 and 18, sprayed a suspected noxious gas substance into a classroom where pupils were present.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident was first observed when two female pupils exited the classroom and collapsed shortly afterwards.
Chilabi said a third female pupil also collapsed soon after.
“Teachers immediately responded and evacuated all pupils from the classroom after confirming a suspected gassing incident. Further investigations led to the identification and apprehension of the two male pupils. They are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations,” he said.
Chilabi said police officers were on the lookout for a third pupil, suspected of supplying the substance used in the incident, who left the school premises after the incident occurred.
“Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him. A total of 13 female pupils were affected and taken to Chongwe District Hospital for medical attention. Eight pupils have been discharged after treatment, while five remain admitted,” he said.
Meanwhile, police officers have apprehended suspected illegal immigrants in the Mungule area.
Chilabi said 27 prohibited immigrants believed to be Ethiopians were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation conducted in the Mungule area on Friday, around 04:30 hours.
“The operation followed intelligence received from members of the community around 04:00 hours, indicating that a white Toyota Hiace Quantum motor vehicle was transporting illegal immigrants along the Mungule-Keembe Road,” Chilabi said.
