When you are arrested in Zambia, you have important legal protections. First, you must be informed of the reasons for your arrest and detention in a language you understand [The Extradition Act, S.22]. This applies regardless of whether the arrest was made with or without a warrant.
Second, you must be brought before a magistrate's court as soon as practicable after your arrest [The Extradition Act, S.22]. A magistrate may remand you in custody or on bail for periods not exceeding seven days at a time. You can be brought back before a magistrate at the end of each remand period for review of your detention.
If you are a child, you have additional protections. You should generally be released by a law enforcement officer on your own recognisance or that of your parent, guardian or close relative, unless you are accused of a serious offence [Children's Code, S.56]. If you cannot be released on recognisance, a court must order your placement in a safe place within forty-eight hours of arrest [Children's Code, S.56].
These protections ensure that your arrest is handled lawfully and that your detention is reviewed promptly by a court. If you believe your arrest was unlawful or your rights have been violated, you should seek legal advice immediately.