Lusaka Woman’s Gruesome Skeletal Remains Case Hits a Pause in Court

 Lusaka Woman’s Gruesome Skeletal Remains Case Hits a Pause in Court

Lusaka, June 3, 2025 — What was supposed to be a jaw-dropping day in court turned out to be a moment of suspense as the Lusaka High Court adjourned the highly anticipated case of a woman accused of keeping her husband’s skeletal remains for nearly two years.

52-year-old Sylvia Mutaba is at the centre of this chilling case, facing a manslaughter charge over the death of her husband, George Kalaba. Alongside her are her three daughters — Wendy (27), Sandra (22), and Natasha (19) — and a family friend, Preteria Musela, all accused of failing to report Kalaba’s death.

The disturbing discovery was made earlier this year, when Kalaba’s skeletal remains were found inside their family home in Garden Luangwa Compound, Lusaka. Authorities believe he died sometime between July 1, 2023, and January 14, 2025.

But just as court proceedings were heating up this morning, a twist unfolded. A juvenile, not listed on the charge sheet, was suddenly called out by the court — throwing the session into confusion.

The State admitted they were unaware of the juvenile’s involvement, and a brief stand-down was requested. However, the defense objected, insisting that a nolle prosequi (a formal withdrawal of prosecution) had already been filed for the minor — and that this information was already publicly known.

With things getting murky, both sides agreed to adjourn the matter to tomorrow to allow time to reconcile court records.

This bizarre and tragic case continues to grip the nation, leaving many wondering — what really happened behind those closed doors, and why was the death kept a secret?

Stay tuned for updates as the trial resumes.