Zambia Minister Says Will Not Close Schools Over "Gas Attacks"

The Zambian government on Wednesday said it will not close schools following a spate of spraying of people's houses and public institutions with unknown chemicals.

Minister of General Education David Mabumba said that after an assessment of the situation, the government has decided that schools will remain open because it is safe for pupils to continue learning.

He told a press briefing that security will be beefed up in schools.

Six schools have been "gassed" since December.

According to police, 26 suspects have been arrested in connection with the spraying of unknown chemicals.

A total of 46 people have been killed by lynch mobs after being suspected of being behind the spraying.

It is not clear what substance was used, but victims reported of fainting and shortness of breath after such gassing attacks.