‘Vandalism of police infrastructure affects security’
Southern Region Commissioner of Police Demester Chigwenembe has bemoaned vandalism of police infrastructure by communities, saying it affects operations.
Speaking last week at an executive committee (Sec) meeting at Kanjedza Police Training School in Blantyre, the commissioner said security lapses in some townships are a result of ransacking of police units.
“Communities should present their grievances to police rather than smashing units or stations. This malpractice has affected our commitment to duty. When people attack a unit, communities will be without police officers since we are forced to withdraw them,” said Chigwenembe.
He also urged participants to sensitise communities to the evils of mob justice to promote human rights.
Group village head Chiwembe assured the commissioner of a cordial relationship between communities and officers to intensify security in the area.
Limbe Police Station officer-in-charge Benson Tawakali said they would enhance officers’ visibility to prevent crime.
“We want to reduce crime further to 35 percent from 17.4 percent in the first quarter. We will continue with strategies like sweeping exercises, intensive patrols and raids, among others,” he said.
Limbe policing area consists of Machinjiri, Bangwe, Bvumbwe, Chigumula, Chinyonga, Kachere, Mudi, Mpingwe, Manje and Mikolongwe. n
