Lilongwe people warned against mob justice

Nathenje Police Post officer in-charge Beston Mmangisa has warned people in Lilongwe District against engaging in mob justice.

The warning comes after a spate of attacks against suspects, which also led to the arrest of perpetrators.

Speaking on Tuesday at Mthiko Village in Lilongwe Mpenu Nkhoma, Mmangisa said suspects should be handed over to the police for proper dispensation of justice.

He said: “Don’t take the law into your own hands. If you kill a suspect, you defeat the end of justice since police cannot trace accomplices.

“Nobody is above the law, as such, you should respect the rule of law. If you kill a suspect, you will be arrested for murder.”

Mmangisa also warned people against taking their own lives, saying suicide is not a solution to problems.

“When you are facing problems, do not commit suicide. This is not a solution as it affects your dependents,” he said.

During the meeting, Nathenje Police community policing coordinator Wilson Saiwala warned perpetrators of gender-based violence that they will face justice.

On his part, Chilenje Ward councillor Noel Uganja bemoaned mob justice in the area.

“I ask police to continue raising awareness on the dangers of mob justice,” he said.

Group village head Mthiko pledged to coordinate efforts with the police to ensure his area is crime-free.

“We will also strengthen our community policing structures to reduce crime,” he said.