Police deploy 2 000 for Chilima burial
Malawi Police Service has deployed about 2 000 officers to intensify security at Vice-President Saulos Chilima’s burial ceremony today at Nsipe in Ntcheu District.
In an internal communication dated June 15 2025, the deployment of police officers from all the six police regions was expected to be completed by 4am today.
The Central West Police Region has about 12 police formations and will contribute about 1 100 police officers, the Central East region will contribute 350 officers, while the Northern Region will contribute about 75 officers.
The South West Region is expected to contribute about 280 while the Eastern Region has contributed about 310 officers. The South East Region will deploy 80 officers.
Among others, the service advises the deployed police officers to be on alert, observe their surroundings and avoid regrouping after the deployment.
Reads the communication in part: “Avoid idleness such as being on WhatsApp all the time other than communicating with team leader if there is something of security interest.
“Always face people where they have gathered and observe their behaviour. Any misconduct should be approached with a sober mind.
“At the venue, let’s prevent people from climbing in trees or any tall buildings as such places are dangerous in times of snipers including catapult [malegeni].”
The deployment comes amid reports of possible violent conduct during Chilima’s burial ceremony.
On Thursday last week, the United States (US) Embassy in Malawi issued a statement advising its staff to be on security alert fearing that there was potential for civil unrest during Chilima’s funeral.
The embassy further advised its staff to avoid congested places as there would be unpredictable security situations.
Reads the statement in part: “Due to funerals and other activities associated with Monday’s plane crash, there is likely to be increased vehicular and foot traffic over the weekend in areas of Lilongwe, including well-traveled routes.”
On Tuesday, Police advised all its officers to be on standby and suspended their leave days until further notice.
Chilima died in a plane crash on Monday last week in Chikangawa Forest in Mzimba along with eight others including former First Lady Patricia Shanil Dzimbiri. He will be laid to rest at his home, Nsipe in Ntcheu District this afternoon.
