Balaka Police Station Officer‑in‑Charge, Phillip Dinala, has urged residents of Kambadi Village in Traditional Authority Nsamala, Balaka, to act as watchdogs and tipsters to the police in order to strengthen security.
This follows threats of closure at Chendausiku Primary School due to a series of thefts in teachers’ homes and surrounding areas, where livestock and household items have also been stolen.
Dinala appealed to the Headteacher, Michael Gusto, and the Primary Education Advisor (PEA) for Chendausiku Zone, Eunice Mauluka Mandala, not to proceed with closing the school in frustration over the thefts, reminding them that children still need access to education.
“Police will work tirelessly to promote security in this area. Do not take the law into your own hands, because that is a crime. Report to the police,” he said.
To improve security, Dinala directed Chief Kambadi to select community policing members this week without delay so that patrols can begin, with Balaka Police Station providing reinforcement.
Chief Kambadi confirmed that members will be selected on Saturday, noting that the community faces challenges with harbouring unknown individuals, which is endangering security.
He urged police to arrest all those involved.
