Don’t vandalise railway—Police

Police in Blantyre District have warned people of Traditional Authority Kapeni against vandalising the railway line passing through their area.

Speaking on Tuesday during a meeting with community members at group village head James I, Chileka Police Station community policing coordinator Emmanuel Kalungu said it was important to protect the railway line because it was an alternative means of transport.

He said: “People should understand that railway transport is also crucial for the country’s socio-economic development as people or companies can transport bulky goods by train.

“Therefore, we ask people not to steal rails or any equipment for metal business.”

Kalungu said they recently met Central East African Railways to discuss the safety of railway lines in the district and that the police assured the company that they would engage communities on the same.

Kapeni Community Policing Forum secretary Rodrick Taumbe said they will work with the police to ensure safety of the railway line in the area.

“We thank the police for addressing people about the railway’s security. We hope their presence will motivate people to work with us to protect the railway,” he said.

Village head Ngosa said they were pleased to discuss security issues with the police, including safety of the railway line.

He said: “We will work with the police to ensure the railway line is protected.

“We will also formulate by-laws to enhance security in the area,” he said