UN saddened over attacks on foreigners in Zambia

The United Nations (UN) refugee agency on Tuesday expressed sadness over attacks on foreign-owned businesses by local people in Zambia and urged authorities to reign in the situation.

Residents in high density areas of the Zambian attacked shops belonging to Rwandese on Monday and Tuesday after suspicions that the owners were behind a spate of ritual killings that have hit the city in recent weeks in which victims were found with their hearts and ears removed.

The residents accuse the foreigners of using body parts to enhance their businesses and so far seven people have been victims in shanty compounds situated west of the city.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), while commending the authorities for their response to contain the attacks, has expressed sadness over the attacks on foreigners, refugees and former refugees.

"It is very concerning and sad to hear these news of violence against brothers and sisters of nearby countries. While we appreciate the efforts made so far, UNHCR is calling on the government to continue to do all it can to prevent any future incidents. Zambia should remain a harbor of peace and respect for the principle of Ubuntu (humanity)," Laura Lo Castro, the UNHCR Representative said in a statement.

She added that many refugees have called the UNHCR offices sharing their fears and information about the loss of property and urged Zambia to maintain its reputation of hosting thousands of refugees.

The UN refugee agency has since urged all foreigners and refugees to abide by the laws of the country, and live in continued harmony with the host community.

Meanwhile, the Rwandan High Commission in Zambia has urged its citizens to be alert and avoid unnecessary risks after the looting of their shops by local people.

The Zambian government has since called for calm over the incident and assured foreigners of their security.

Minister of Home Affairs Davies Chama, who toured some of the affected areas, said 11 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the ritual killings but did not state their nationality.

He further stated that over 250 people have been detained for looting foreign owned shops and that over 60 shops have been looted. The police have since been deployed to keep vigil in the affected areas while some Rwandans have sought refugee in police stations. Endit