‘New police unit to address security lapse’

People of Traditional Authority Phambala in Ntcheu District have commended the district council for constructing a police unit in the area as it will address security lapse.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, Phambala Area Development Committee chairperson Herbert Wandawanda said previously, people used to walk long distances to Senzani Police Unit to access security services.

He said: “Due to the absence of a police station, we have been robbed in our houses and people have hurt each other through mob justice.

“With the new police unit, we hope that mob justice cases will decrease.”

Wandawanda said people from the area were committed to taking part in the remaining construction works which, according to the contractor, was at 75 percent completion rate.

Speaking on behalf of T/A Phambala, Daniel Masula said they expect to see more people flocking to the area with various business investments and that banks will also start operating in the area.

“The presence of police gives businesspersons confidence that their property will be secure,” he said.

Ntcheu district director of public works Mathew Lungu said the council, through Constituency Development Fund (CDF), pumped in K29 million for the completion of works at the police unit.

He said the construction, which started in 2016, delayed due to lack of funds.

“The money we have secured now will cater for remaining works of the facility, including office furniture. The contractor has committed to finishing this project in two weeks,” said Lungu.

Ntcheu Police Station officer in-charge Julius Munthali said the police unit will help to tighten security along the border with neighbouring Mozambique.

Ntcheu District Council engaged Bonongwe Construction Company to complete the construction of Ntonda Police Unit.