Eleven arrests at National Heroes Stadium: a fake cash-giveaway post drew a crowd — and a police warning on disinformation

A promise of free money that existed only on social media drew hundreds to National Heroes Stadium on Friday morning — and ended with eleven people under arrest and a public warning from the police about disinformation.

Matero Police Station received a report at about 07:30 hours that a large crowd had gathered at Gate 1 of the stadium, police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said. Officers who responded detained eleven people in connection with the incident; the Times of Zambia reports the suspects were caught compiling a list at the scene.

Preliminary investigations indicate the gathering followed a misleading post by an online commentator claiming that cash would be distributed at the stadium — a post that led many to believe they would each receive money.

Police officers engaged with the crowd and advised those present to disperse peacefully. When the crowd did not comply, officers dispersed it to maintain public order and ensure public safety.
— Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi, in a statement reported by the Times of Zambia and Mwebantu

Mr Chilabi said investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided. The Zambia Police Service urged the public to be wary of disinformation on social media — especially messages promising money or other benefits — and to verify such information with the authorities.

The situation at the stadium was calm by later in the day, with officers continuing to monitor the area.

Sources: Times of Zambia, “11 Arrested at National Heroes Stadium Over Fake Cash Giveaway” (10 Oct 2026); Mwebantu, “Police disperse crowd at National Heroes Stadium over false cash giveaway” (9 Oct 2026).