
Maria
Kabwe, Zambia – August 28, 2025. The Zambia Police Service has arrested five suspects in connection with the murder of 22-year-old Enock Simfukwe Kasengele of 16 Miles, along the Kabwe–Lusaka Road.
According to a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, the suspects were jointly charged with one count of murder, contrary to Section 200, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
List of Suspects Arrested in Kabwe Murder Case
- Nathaniel Barthrem, 34, a Nigerian national.
- Maria Francis Zeleni Zaloumis, 40, of Wonani Farm in Montana.
- Daniel Chiluwa, 40, farm manager of Onani Farm No. 5, Montana area.
- Fortune Mwitangati, 23, of Nyambe Farm.
- Gift Daka, 25, of Onani Farm.
Police have confirmed that all suspects will appear in court soon as investigations progress.
Who Is Maria Zaloumis?
Among those arrested is Maria Francis Zeleni Zaloumis, widely known as “The Zed Farmer.”
• She is the daughter of Mwangala Zaloumis, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
• Maria gained national recognition through her modern farming techniques and agribusiness innovations, which earned her a reputation as one of Zambia’s most influential young farmers.
• Her personal life has also remained in the spotlight due to three failed marriages within a short period, adding to her controversial public image.
Zambia Police Statement on Justice
“The Zambia Police Service assures the public that it will continue to pursue justice without fear or favor and ensure that those who commit serious crimes are held accountable,” said Rae Hamoonga.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Incident Location: Kabwe, Central Province.
- Victim: Enock Simfukwe Kasengele, 22.
- Charges: One count of murder under Section 200, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
- Suspects in Custody: Five, including prominent farmer Maria Zaloumis.
- Next Steps: Court appearance pending.