ZOMBA-(MaraviPost)-The Child Advocate Centre has challenged the Independent Complaints Commission (ICC) to intervene and investigate circumstances surrounding the release of a sexual abuse suspect in Machinga, warning that the development could negatively affect the course of justice.
The call follows a MaraviPost publication on the matter which the organisation says it has taken keen interest in and is closely monitoring.
Executive Director for Child Advocate Centre Memory Nyangosi has described the release of the suspect as unacceptable and a gross misconduct by the police officer involved, demanding immediate action from relevant authorities.
Speaking to MaraviPost on Sunday, Nyangosi called for the immediate re-arrest of the suspect, arguing that releasing a person accused of sexual abuse could have serious consequences on the victim and the progress of the case before court.
“This act is totally unacceptable and a gross misconduct by this police officer. We immediately demand that this suspect must be re-arrested,” Nyangosi said.
She warned that the suspect’s release could expose the victim to threats, intimidation or pressure to change statements, which may interfere with investigations and undermine the pursuit of justice.
Nyangosi further called on the Malawi Police Service to take disciplinary action against the officer involved and remove the officer from handling the matter, allowing another investigator to take over the case.
“Cases of this nature are increasing and this is becoming very worrisome. These are officers and public institutions that we have trusted to respond to child abuse cases, not to disrupt the course of justice,” she said.
The Child Advocate Centre has since urged the ICC to investigate the matter, saying there is a need to ensure accountability among public officers entrusted with protecting children and handling cases of sexual abuse.
The organisation says swift intervention is crucial to protect the victim, safeguard the integrity of investigations and ensure that justice takes its course.
