IG decries corruption

Inspector General (IG) of Malawi Police Peter Mukhito has said an internal survey has revealed that most officers indulge in corruption, especially in granting of police bail.

Mukhito was speaking in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, on Saturday when he attended a junior officers’ ball at the National Police Headquarters where he said the overall performance of the Malawi Police Service (MPS), especially in recovery of firearms and robberies, had improved in 2011.

“The survey revealed that lower ranking officers are caught in corruption, especially when granting police bail. Most of them have lost their jobs.

“Police bail is free and we hope other stakeholders such as civil society organisations will help us educate Malawians on the same,” he said.

Mukhito said apart from corruption, the handling of suspects when arrested without regard to their rights, was another area he looks forward to police officers to improve as there  have been reports of abuse.

“When someone breaks the law, they have not offended you personally. Treat them as prescribed, even when interrogating them. Do not personalise work, let the law take its course through courts,” said Mukhito who kept referring to the Bible in his speech.

He said Malawians remain masters of the police service; hence, it is important that officers follow prescribed guidelines in carrying out their work. He said using the community policing initiative, the police would integrate into society and help protect lives and property.

Chairperson of the organising committee of the ball Laston Kachiko said police officers want prepaid electricity meters to reduce bills accumulated by previous occupants of their houses. He also hailed President Bingu wa Mutharika for supporting the Christmas ball with meat.