By Chinoyi Chipulu
Kitwe City Council (KCC) is investigating Divine Massage Spa that has allegedly been operating as a sex den in Kitwe’s Parklands area.
The local authority through the health department swung into action after residents suspected that the premises was being used for illegal activities after a child was found playing with what appeared to be a used condom.
KCC public relations manager Mwaka Nakweti stated that during the inspection, 10 women believed to be under the age of 30, including the alleged proprietor of the said spa were found and taken to Kitwe Police Station to assist with further investigations.
Nakweti stated that further investigations at the scene suggested that the women resided at the premises and this raised suspicions that the location might be operating as a brothel under the pretense of offering massage services.
She stated that while investigations were still underway, the premises had been closed in the interest of public health and safety and the council was working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the matter was thoroughly reviewed and appropriate action was taken.
Nakweti condemned any suspected illicit activities that may endanger public health, violate community morals and values, or operate outside the framework of the law.
She reminded members of the public that under the Zambian law, operating a brothel was an offense.
“The Penal Code Act, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, particularly Sections 146 to 148, prohibits the keeping, managing, or knowingly allowing any premises to be used as a brothel. The Public Health Act, Chapter 295, also empowers local authorities to address nuisances and protect public health, especially in situations that may pose a risk to children and the wider community,” she stated.
Nakweti further stated that the Local Government Act, required that all business premises within a district be duly registered, licensed, and operated in accordance with the law.
She urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities or establishments to the Council or relevant authorities.
