Tensions flared in Matero, Lusaka, on Saturday as residents clashed with Department of Immigration officers during “Operation Spider.” Two vehicles were vandalized, with windscreens shattered.
Department spokesman Namati Nshinka expressed disappointment at the hostility, noting that some residents attempted to create chaos to facilitate looting of shops linked to suspected illegal immigrants. He warned the public against obstructing officers, calling it a serious offense. “The operation, dubbed Operation Spider, aimed to rid Lusaka City of illegal immigrants,” he said.
Despite the unrest, the operation successfully detained 186 suspected illegal immigrants, following the initial apprehension of 280 individuals across Lusaka, including areas like Lilanda, Chazanga, Emmasdale, and COMESA market.
