Shot woman family demands justice
By Thandizo Banda
THE family of the 26-year-old woman of Kapiri Mposhi shot by her police officer husband has demanded justice, accusing authorities of dragging their feet and secretly downgrading the charge to assault.
The victim, Gladys Milala, is fighting for her life at Kabwe Central Hospital while her husband, constable Jonathan Miyoba, is in custody for attempted murder.
Spokesperson Lyson Milala said the family had heard that the charge had been changed to the lighter assault.
“This is attempted murder; he shot to kill. We want attempted murder,” Milala said, warning the family would report anyone trying to compromise the case to the Anti-corruption Commission (ACC).
Central Province commissioner of police Lemekani Chirwa dismissed allegations of a cover-up, saying the officer remained charged with attempted murder.
“No one is above the law,” Chirwa said.
Police had rejected an earlier request by the victim’s family to withdraw the matter.
Miyoba, who had drawn an AK-47 with 10 rounds for guard duty at CAMCO on September 13, left his post to look for his wife.
He found her at her sister’s house in Valley View around 02:10 hours, where an argument ensued and he allegedly shot her in the abdomen.
Her older sister, Pecevia Milala, 36, disarmed him and handed the rifle to the police.
Only seven rounds were found in the gun.
Gladys was first taken to Kapiri District Hospital before being referred to Kabwe Central Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
