Central West Region Deputy Commissioner of Police Owen Maganga has urged communities in Traditional Authority Kalumba in Lilongwe to work with the police to end mob justice, theft and child abuse.
The Deputy Commissioner, speaking on Monday at the Catholic University Nanjiri Campus during a meeting which drew together traditional and religious leaders, businesspersons and community policing members,
said it was worrisome that people still kill suspected criminals despite awareness against the vice.
Said Maganga: “Mob justice is rife not only here but also across several parts of Lilongwe. This trend is worrisome and it should stop forthwith since it is against the rule of law.
“So, traditional and religious leaders as well as businesspeople, it is your duty to preach to your people to stop taking matters into their own hands.”
Lilongwe Police Station officer in-charge Sydon Mpina lamented that some community members continue to accuse elderly people of practising witchcraft.
He said: “Why do the accusers only target the elderly? Growing old is not a crime, neither is it a qualification for one to be branded a witch.
“So, it is also your duty to inform your masses to stop labelling old people witches or wizards.”
Regional executive committee chairperson Alex Chapondera encouraged the traditional leaders to revamp community policing forums.
“I give you traditional leaders two weeks to elect members into community policing panels,” he said.
Group village head Kalumba reiterated the need to coordinate with police to enhance safety and security in the area.
