The two suspects have been charged with practicing witchcraft, possession of charms, and cruelty to animals.

Two individuals have been taken into custody for allegedly conspiring to harm Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema through witchcraft, according to police reports released on Friday.

In a statement, police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga identified the suspects as Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, 42, and Leonard Phiri, 43. The pair were allegedly hired by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of fugitive lawmaker Jay Banda, to carry out the plot using witchcraft.

Jay Banda has been on the run since August 2024 after escaping from police custody, where he was being held on charges of aggravated robbery. His current location remains unknown.

The suspects are now facing charges of practicing witchcraft, possession of charms, and cruelty to animals.

“The suspects were found in possession of various charms, including a live chameleon, and are alleged to be practicing witchdoctors,” Hamoonga stated. He added that their supposed mission was "to use charms to harm the Head of State, His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema.”

Hamoonga also revealed that the suspects admitted to agreeing on a payment of $7,400 for completing their mission.