Central West Region Commissioner of Police Mabvuto M’bobo has urged people in Lilongwe District to stop taking the law into their own hands, saying the actions are criminal.
He said this on Monday at Mitundu Primary School during a community awareness that attracted people from traditional authorities(T/As) Chadza, Chiseka, Masula, Chingala and Namaguya organised by the National Police Headquarters.
M’bobo said Mitundu and surrounding areas have high cases of murder linked to mob justice.
“Our figures show that Mitundu is topping the list of murders related to mob justice and this is worrisome. This is why we are here to urge people to refrain from taking laws into their own hands because this undermines the rule of law,” he said.
M’bobo also urged people to refrain from committing suicide but seek counselling from the police victim support unit whenever they are depressed.
Malawi Police deputy director for community policing and rural police units Alexander Ngwala said the country recorded 68 murder cases linked to mob justice from January to March this year.
“We appeal to religious and faith leaders to coordinate efforts to preach against mob justice and suicide,” he said.
Group village head Mitundu hailed the call as timely.
The event, which started with whistle-stop tours at Lilongwe Community Ground, Area 36 and Wakawaka Market, featured a performance of Malawi Police Orchestra Band as well as a football match between Blue Eagles and Mitundu Select which ended two-all draw.
