Chikulamayembe, Police condemn mob justice
Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe of Rumphi and Northern Region Police have condemned cases of mob justice happening in the district.
Their appeal follows an attack by an angry mob on a Rwandan businessperson Ali Hillary’s house on suspicion that he murdered his employee, a community member.
Police said there were also other incidents in the past where people were victimised on allegations of witchcraft. The incidents have compelled police to hold meetings with chiefs to sensitise them to the dangers of mob justice.
Northern Region Police deputy spokesperson Martin Bwanali said the meetings seek to educate communities on human rights.
“Much as we condemn crime, people have to know that every person has the right to be heard. When you have grievances, report them to police,” he said.
Bwanali said the police have since distributed bicycles to Bolero Community Victim Support Unit, Bolero Community Police Forum and Bolero Police Unit to help alleviate transport challenges faced by security personnel.
Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe has joined the fight against mob justice, saying it sometimes victimises innocent people.
Speaking in an interview on Thursday, Chikulamayembe said it is not on for people to take the law in their hands when there are proper channels of settling grievances.
