Mukhito urges Karonga residents to shun mob justice

By George Mponda

Karonga, August 31, MANA: Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito has called on people in Karonga District to desist from mob justice and allow law enforcement agencies to handle suspected criminals through established legal channels.

Mukhito made the call on Monday at Karonga Community Ground during a Community Policing Open Day organised by the Malawi Police Service to raise awareness on the prevention of mob justice, murder, suicide and gender-based violence.

He said mob justice cases were on the rise in the country and required concerted efforts from communities, traditional leaders and law enforcement agencies to curb the malpractice.

“People should not take the law into their own hands. If there is a problem, let people seek justice through established channels such as chiefs and the police,” said Mukhito.

He said some victims of mob justice could be innocent, adding that such acts could also interfere with police investigations.

“Sometimes the person being attacked by a mob is innocent, and when people take matters into their own hands, they can destroy important evidence and make it difficult for police to do their work,” he said.

Mukhito also urged Malawians to respect life and avoid suicide, saying such acts leave children orphaned and other dependants without support. “Whenever people face problems, they should seek assistance from others instead of resorting to suicide. We need to value life,” he said.

He further warned people in Karonga against harbouring illegal migrants, alleging that some were involved in illegal gold mining and smuggling gold out of Malawi, thereby depriving the country of revenue.

Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga condemned witchcraft accusations, particularly those targeting elderly and well-to-do people, saying jealousy was sometimes behind such allegations.

“People who are well-to-do in society are sometimes accused of witchcraft out of jealousy. This must stop,” he said.
Luhanga also warned men against having sexual relations with underage girls, reminding them that the law protects everyone below 18 years. He further said police had gathered intelligence on individuals suspected of human trafficking in Karonga and that arrests would soon be made.

Speaking at the event, Karonga District Commissioner Willard Mwambo said the council would use the reformed Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to enhance security in communities.

Mwambo said the council was committed to completing construction of Wiliro Police Station to improve access to police services and strengthen security in surrounding communities.

“We will work closely with the police in implementing CDF projects. Their role will be important in protecting construction materials,” he said.

He added that the police would also help prevent corruption and abuse of resources in CDF projects. “We must ensure that the resources meant for development are not stolen or abused, and that corruption does not undermine these projects,” said Mwambo.

Paramount Chief Kyungu called for unity and love among Malawians, urging communities to resolve disputes peacefully instead of resorting to mob justice.

“Let us love one another as Malawians. We should not kill each other through mob justice,” he said.

Kyungu also urged government to intensify efforts to deal with illegal migrants and drug abuse, which he said was affecting young people in Karonga.

“We also appeal to government to deal with illegal migrants and the problem of drug abuse among our young people,” he said.

The Community Policing Open Day also featured traditional dances and a football match between Blue Eagles and Karonga Select, as part of efforts to promote community participation in crime prevention and public safety.