Community Policing Coordinator for Balaka Police Station, Masautso Katemera, has warned areas that are around Traditional Authority Nkaya in Balaka District against selling alcohol along the railway alignment.
This comes after reports that some communities around Traditional Authority Nkaya are conducting their business of selling liquor along the railway alignment, which he said can lead to train accidents.
Speaking during the awareness meeting at Traditional Authority Nkaya on Monday, Katemera said it is worrisome to note that selling alcoholic beverages along the alignment is quite common.
He further warned the communities to stop conducting their business of selling liquor along the railway alignment or risk being arrested and brought to court as some take advantage of vandalizing and stealing railway line property.
The community policing coordinator also told the communities that no compensation is given to anyone who has been hit or run over by the train.
Utale Police Unit Officer In-charge Assistant, Ronald Duma, said the police will continue conducting patrols along the railway line to prevent vandalism and stealing of railway line property.
Traditional Authority Nkaya said he will not shield any community member in his area who will be found vandalising and stealing railway line property.
He added that he will collaborate with the law enforcers to curb the vice.
