Police condemn torching of suspects

Police in Lilongwe have condemned the tendency by some sections of society to take the law into their hands and torch crime suspects.

Lilongwe Police Station spokesperson Kingsley Dandaula said this in reaction to the killing yesterday of a suspected robber by residents of Area 36 in Lilongwe.

Area 36 resident at dawn yesterday set alight the suspected robber who was allegedly caught trying to break into one of the houses through a window.

Witnesses said the man was seen trying to open a window of one of the houses near Kandikole Market.

In recent months, Area 36 has experienced a spate of robberies, with thieves targeting vehicles, shops and residential houses.

Said the witness: “We just heard people shouting at around 3am that they had caught a thief. A heated debate ensued and some suggested that the suspect be handed to the police whereas others suggested that he be set alight.”

Dandaula said police are investigating the matter.

However, Dandaula advised people against taking the law in their hands.

He said suspected law breakers should be handed over to the police.