Police engage stakeholders ahead of festive season

MALAWI: The Officer-in-charge for Mangochi Police Station Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr. Timothy Phiri appealed to various stakeholders in the district to work hand in hand with the police to ensure a crime-free festive season.

The Officer-in-Charge made the call yesterday at Mangochi Town Council Multi-purpose Hall as Christmas and New Year festivities are nearing.

In his remarks, Phiri advised the stakeholders to avoid keeping huge sums of money in their houses but rather deposit them to the bank.

“Do not keep the huge sum of money in your houses or business places, whatever sales you make, make sure you deposit in good time,” he said.

He challenged the people not to harbour criminals and also have records of their guests to ensure that criminals do not take advantage of the season by posing as clients.

On his part, Chief Executive Officer for Mangochi Municipal Council Abubakar Nkhoma appealed to the gathering to make use of security measures to be safe during the season.

He also committed to supporting the area by clearing all loopholes facilitating insecurity in the area.

The Supervisor for Mount Meru Filling Station Madalitso Square commended the Police for being available whenever they need them hence peaceful businesses can be seen in the area

Meanwhile, the stakeholders comprised representatives from various banks, lodges, resorts, business owners, and Non-Governmental Organisations have pledged to support the police with a call that they should improve their way of responding to matters when called in times of need.

During last year's festive season five people lost their lives in the three road accidents which happened in the district.

Christmas and New Year are annually observed on 25th December and 1st January respectively, and it is a tradition that a lot of people flock to Mangochi to enjoy themselves.