Police Detain 19-Year-Old Over AI-Generated Zambia Army Uniform Image

Police have detained a 19-year-old Lusaka man in connection with an alleged identity theft and impersonation case involving an AI-generated image of a local musician dressed in a Zambia Army uniform.

The Zambia Police Service says the image, which circulated on Facebook, depicted musician Charles Chomba wearing a Zambia Army uniform bearing the rank of Brigadier General.

Police said the image was created between September 25 and 28 and later came to the attention of the Zambia Army.

The matter was reported at Kabwata Police Station on October 6 by Chomba, 24, of Jack Compound in Lusaka.

Following joint investigations by the Zambia Police Service and Military Police, officers identified Daudi Ngambi, 19, of John Howard Compound, as a suspect.

Ngambi has been apprehended and remains in police custody as investigations continue.

Police said the case highlights the growing risks associated with digitally manipulated content, particularly when it falsely associates individuals with defence and security institutions.

The service warned that such content can undermine public confidence, facilitate impersonation and misinformation, and create security concerns.

Police have urged members of the public to exercise caution when creating, sharing or circulating digitally manipulated material and to verify information before sharing it.

The service further warned that creating or circulating digitally manipulated content for unlawful purposes may attract criminal liability under applicable laws.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police say further updates will be provided as the matter progresses.