South West Region Police Commissioner Lovemore Mwabumba has commended the strong working relationship between the Malawi Police Service and the community, saying it has contributed to reduction in crime in the region.
Speaking in an interview after the region released the report on Monday for the first quarter of 2026, he said the region recorded 1 843 cases compared with 2 015 cases in the corresponding period in 2025.
Mwabumba also said road accidents dropped to 315 from 351 in 2025.
the meeting. | Wisdom Chirombo
“We will, therefore, reflect on the first quarter of 2026 and address issues related to safety and security, particularly crime and road safety. Our mission as police is to provide quality internal security services in partnership with the community and the regional executive committee,” he said.
Mwabumba said they have been getting information from community policing structures and informants about crime-related issues.
Senior Chief Kuntaja, who spoke on behalf of traditional leaders during the meeting with police, said traditional leaders were committed to collaborating with police to fight crime in the region.
He said: “We believe that security is a major catalyst for development. Without security, no investor can spend millions to operate businesses or provide services.
“We, therefore, will encourage our subjects to report any suspicious activities to ensure a crime-free environment.”
A Blantyre resident Joel Chiutira urged the police to continue patrols and increase visibility to maintain a downward trajectory of crimes in the region.
