Malawi Police Service and Malawi Defence Force (MDF) yesterday arrested 14 suspects in a dawn raid of Msundwe in Lilongwe that targeted criminal networks linked to smuggling, illicit alcohol and other illegal activities.
When The Nation visited the area located about 40 kilometres west of the capital city, scores of police officers, including some in riot gear, were seen moving around the area. There were also ad hoc roadblocks mounted near the trading centre.
National Police deputy spokesperson Alfred Chimthere in an interview yesterday said the exercise forms part of wider efforts to restore law and order in the area.
intensified security.
| Nation
He said: “We have intensified security operations and we are working together with the Malawi Defence Force to ensure safety and security in Msundwe.
“So far, we have arrested 14 suspects connected to various offences, including obstructing police officers while on duty, possession of property suspected to have been stolen or unlawfully obtained, illegal possession of liquid gas and counterfeiting trademarks.”
Chimthere said the suspects comprising 13 men and a woman are being held at Lilongwe Police Station. However, he declined to disclose their identities.
During the raid, police also confiscated large quantities of ethanol, suspected counterfeit alcoholic products, liquid gas and assorted electronic items after suspects allegedly failed to produce supporting documentation for their purchase.
Chimthere said authorities were still assessing the value and quantities of the seized items.
On the involvement of the military, he dismissed suggestions that the deployment was unusual, saying: “There is nothing unusual about the arrangement. It is normal to involve the MDF in such operations.”
The scale of the deployment appeared to have caught some residents by surprise, with others saying they were uncertain about the exact focus of the operation.
Msundwe resident Malita Kakudzala said she only noticed a heavy security presence in the area.
“I have just seen many police officers around, but I do not really know what is happening,” she said.
Local trader Chikaiko Damson said business activities were continuing despite reports of arrests.
“Life is going on normally. I heard that some people were arrested, but I am not sure what exactly happened,” he said.
In a separate interview, former Lilongwe South West legislator Jean Sendeza also confirmed reports of heightened security activity, but said she was yet to receive detailed information.
“I have heard about the heavy police presence and activities taking place there, but I do not have further details at the moment,” said the former Cabinet minister.
On the other hand, Chimthere dismissed speculation linking the operation to social media reports about a possible arrest of former president Lazarus Chakwera or fears of unrest.
“It would be inappropriate to comment on speculation. The raid went according to our plan and there was no confrontation whatsoever. The situation is calm and peaceful,” he said.
Police further said the 14 suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear before court as investigations continue.
During the post-2019 presidential election period, Msundwe gained notoriety as one of the country’s politically sensitive security hotspots as it hosted and mobilised groups that led violent protests against the outcome of the election.
