OVER K18,000 has been stolen from six Chinese betting machines commonly known as ‘BONANZA’ at Kanyelele market in Siavonga.

According to the shop owner, Mukwa Sengwa, the thieves casually opened the door before descending on the security guard who they tied. They ransacked the machines and got away with more than K18, 000.

Mr Sengwa told the Daily Nation that he was in shock and wondered how the thieves managed to enter the shop without damaging the door.

He urged police interrogate the matter to its conclusion so that the people behind the crime are brought to book.

”I suspect it’s an inside job and police must ensure that the people behind are brought to book,” he said.

The police have since detained the security guard to help them with investigations And Kanyelele Market chairperson, Joseph Mwansa has called for improved security to deal with the increasing number of thefts at the market. He said of late the market has been experiencing burglaries which has led to shop owners to spend sleepless nights. Mr Mwansa said the police must intensify night patrols and corner marauding criminals.