Police Institutes Inquiry Team on Msundwe Sexual Violence
Malawi police Service has instituted an inquiry team into alleged defilement, rape, torture and theft against police officers in and around Msundwe, M’bwatalika and Mpingu Trading Centres in Lilongwe.
The inquiry team which is headed by Commissioner Arlene Baluwa comprises different professionals who will investigate the matter in a transparent and independent manner.
A press statement signed by police public relations officer James Kadadzera says all suspects will be treated according to law of the land without favour.
“Police has therefore appealed to the public who have reliable information on the matter to cooperate and share the information with the inquiry team,” Kadadzera says
The team has been instituted after NGO Gender Coordination Network GCN called for action to investigate the alleged violence after a police officer was killed in Msundwe on 9th October.
NGO GCN Chairperson Barbara Banda and national coordinator Joseph Njala say the network is disturbed with reports that some of the police officers on October 9 abused the women and girls.
Barbara and Njala have demanded president Mutharika to ensure police initiates thorough investigations and punish all culprits.
“NGOGCN also demands inspector general of police to ensure no one is shielded and the investigations reach logical conclusion,” said Barbara and Njala
The Network has urged Malawi Human Rights Commission to conduct its independent investigations into the allegations and take necessary steps based on the findings.
Meanwhile, Malawi Police Service has MPS urged members of the public to immediately stop inciting or participating in any acts of violence including mob justice.
MPS says any person engaging in acts of violence shall be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The service has appealed to all members of the public and relevant stakeholders to join hands with the police to ensure that acts of violence are brought to an end and sensitize the masses on dangers of mob justice
