Zambia Correctional Service Dismisses Claims That Inmate Munir Zulu Was Poisoned With An Apple

The Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS) has dismissed as false and misleading circulating social media reports alleging that inmate and former legislator Munir Zulu was poisoned through an apple while in custody.

In an official statement, ZCS clarified that no such incident had occurred and that routine welfare and medical checks revealed no signs of poisoning or harm.

According to the Service, the misunderstanding stems from an incident on 16th November 2025, when Mr. Zulu reported to the clinic after choking on an apple. He informed medical personnel that a piece of fruit had temporarily obstructed his airway. Clinic staff immediately attended to him and successfully cleared the obstruction.

“At no time did he claim the apple was suspicious or that it was provided by an officer or another inmate,” the statement reads. ZCS further explained that the apples in question had been brought by Mr. Zulu’s own family members, who would have been the first point of inquiry had any concern arisen.

Describing it as a “simple choking incident,” ZCS said the event was consistent with what can happen to anyone. However, as a precaution and in line with internationally recognised correctional best practices, the Service has temporarily restricted fruit deliveries for Mr. Zulu. His family has also been asked to designate two authorised individuals to bring him food to streamline the chain of custody and avoid future misunderstandings.

ZCS emphasised the following points:

All inmate meals and authorised food items are strictly supervised according to security and health protocols.
There has been no breach of procedure and no attempt by anyone to harm Mr. Zulu.
No poisoning incident has been recorded, nor has any inmate required emergency treatment as alleged.
The misinformation circulating online is intended to mislead the public and cause unnecessary alarm.

The Service has urged the public and media outlets to avoid sharing unverified information and to rely on official communication channels.

The statement was issued by Superintendent Cornelius Mwanza, Head of Public Relations for the Zambia Correctional Service.