Attempt to charge a phone ends UNZA student’s life

A 22-year-old University of Zambia (UNZA) student has died after being electrocuted while attempting to plug her phone for charging.

Zambia police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, said the incident occurred around 21:30 hours at October block 2, room 23, of the UNZA Great East Road Campus.

The report was made by Mwanja Daka, aged 29, residing at house 86/24 Ng’ombe Chimulambe street a registered nurse at the university of Zambia clinic.

The incident involved Margret Chibesakunda, aged 22, a third-year student studying public administration at the university of Zambia.

“Ms Chibesakunda sustained severe burns on her neck, right elbow, and leg. despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries,” Mr Hamoonga said.

He said following the unfortunate event, there was a spontaneous demonstration by UNZA students, obstructing the Great East Road with stones and drums. “The deceased’s body was transferred to the university of Zambia clinic and subsequently deposited at the university teaching hospital mortuary awaiting post-mortem and burial,” Mr Hamoonga explained.

Meanwhile, United Party for National Development (UPND) deputy Media Director, Cheelo Katambo, urged UNZA management to offer the nation an explanation how it is possible for a student to be electrocuted.

Mr Katambo also demanded answers on the University’s electrical safety in dormitories, lecture theatres and other spaces where there are electrical connections.

“UNZA must also tell the nation how safe its students, let alone members of staff, are regarding its now understandable poor state of electrical installations,” he said.

Mr Katambo further encouraged the Zambia police to expedite investigations in order to establish all facts into this case of needless electrocution.