March 1, 2026
Video shows 2 Chinese nationals strangling a Zambian woman in Zamfresh Sparking Outrage
Lusaka, March 1, 2026 — A disturbing CCTV video circulating widely on social media shows two Chinese nationals physically assaulting and strangling a Zambian female employee inside an office at Zamfresh, a business in Lusaka. The footage, released today and shared by activist and commentator Joseph Kalimbwe, has ignited public fury, amassing tens of thousands of views within hours.
In the clip, the two men are seen aggressively handling the woman in what appears to be a confined office space, with one appearing to apply pressure to her neck. Bystanders outside reportedly recorded the incident through a locked glass door, unable to intervene immediately. The video has prompted widespread condemnation, with many Zambians expressing frustration over perceived impunity enjoyed by some foreign investors.
Kalimbwe linked the incident to a pattern of abuse, referencing the death of 23-year-old Lewis Mulenga in Ndola approximately six months earlier. Mulenga reportedly died under suspicious circumstances at an Indian-owned pharmacy (ADS Pharmacy), where supervisors allegedly assaulted him before his body was locked away. Despite initial arrests and public outcry including riots in Ndola’s Chisokone area Kalimbwe claims the case was quietly closed, the foreign owners released, and witnessing Zambian employees fired.
He says his efforts to pursue justice were dismissed as political opportunism ahead of the 2026 elections. “This is not the first time,” Kalimbwe posted, criticizing what he sees as systemic tolerance of labor abuses in Chinese, Indian, and other foreign-owned businesses. Social media reactions echoed his sentiment, with users questioning why Zambians often resort to filming rather than intervening and calling for stronger government action against exploitation in the workplace.
Incidents involving Chinese nationals and labor violations have surfaced periodically in Zambia, including past arrests for assaults at companies like Giant Casino in Kitwe and complaints of discriminatory practices. While some cases have led to deportations or prosecutions elsewhere in the region, critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent when foreign investment is involved.
The Zamfresh assault has renewed demands for accountability, labor inspections, and protection for Zambian workers. As public anger grows with calls ranging from protests to diplomatic complaints many hope this viral moment forces authorities to address long-standing grievances over worker safety and dignity in foreign-owned enterprises.
The incident underscores deeper tensions in Zambia’s economy, where foreign direct investment is welcomed but must not come at the cost of basic human rights and equal treatment under the law.
