A 46-year-old man has committed suicide after allegedly def!ling his 15-year-old housemaid in Zambia. 

The deceased, David Phiri, an internal auditor at Chadiza Town Council, is reported to have taken his life at his plot in Mambwe District while on leave.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the incident, which occurred on 26th July 2026 at around 02:00 hours in Jumbe Village, Mambwe District.

Mr Mweemba said Mr Phiri had travelled to Mambwe while on leave and was lodging at the Council Guest House as he worked on his plot.

“On 25th July 2026, the deceased was seen drinking beer and playing pool with friends at a bar in Mambwe’s Central Business District. He later parted ways with his friends. At about 02:00 hours, nearby residents heard someone screaming from the direction of his plot but did not check on him,” Mr Mweemba said.

Members of the public later discovered Mr Phiri lying motionless at the plot and alerted police around 07:00 hours. 

Officers visited the scene and identified the body with the help of relatives.

A physical inspection revealed no visible injuries, but a strong chemical smell was detected. Particles suspected to be maize preservative tablets were found near the body, together with a bottle of whisky.

“The motive for taking his life is not known. However, there are unverified allegations that the deceased had allegedly defiled his 15-year-old housemaid in Chadiza before travelling to Mambwe. This allegation is still subject to police investigations and has not been confirmed,” Mr Mweemba said.

The body has since been deposited at Mambwe District Hospital Mortuary awaiting burial, with police ruling out foul play.