By Twink Jones Gadama
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a significant breakthrough, Lilongwe Police have successfully arrested two notorious gangsters who have been operating as taxi operators and carrying out robberies targeting unsuspecting passengers.
The arrest took place on January 25, 2024, in the Area 3 district of Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital city.
The apprehended individuals have been identified as Alick Kazembe, aged 42, hailing from Malenya Village in the Makanjira area of Mangochi, and Moses Mponda, aged 35, a resident of Madzianyanja Village in the T/A M’bwatalika region of Lilongwe District.
Working in collaboration with two other accomplices, they would offer rides to passengers before launching their attacks.
It all began on the fateful night of January 21, when the suspects approached an innocent man at the MRA roundabout around 8 p.m.
Sensing no danger, the victim accepted the ride, planning to travel to Kabudula Trading Centre. However, as they reached Balon Estate along the road, the perpetrators launched a surprise assault on the passenger, robbing him of various valuable items totaling an estimated worth of K700 thousand.
Promptly responding to the complaint lodged by the victim, diligent detectives from Lilongwe Police launched a thorough investigation into the matter.
Their relentless efforts quickly paid off as they succeeded in apprehending both Kazembe and Mponda, thereby recovering some of the stolen possessions.
Among the recovered items were crucial educational certificates, including MSCE, Diploma, and Medical Council certificates, as well as clothing items.
While these arrests are undoubtedly commendable, the search for the remaining two suspects is ongoing, as law enforcement agencies work diligently to bring them to justice.
The diligent efforts of the Lilongwe Police have sent a clear message that criminal activities will not be tolerated in the city, and law-abiding citizens can rest assured that their safety remains a paramount concern.
Inspector Hastings Chigalu, the Public Relations Officer for the Lilongwe Police, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the investigation.
He emphasized that the suspects would soon face charges related to robbery, ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions.
Inspector Chigalu also highlighted the swift action taken by the police force and reassured the public that every effort is being made to guarantee their safety.
The successful apprehension of these gangsters serves as a reminder to all residents of Lilongwe to remain vigilant and cautious when accepting rides from unfamiliar taxi operators.
It is crucial to prioritize personal safety and take preventive measures such as verifying the legitimacy of the vehicle and its occupants before embarking on any journey.
As the Lilongwe Police continue their relentless pursuit of justice, this incident stands as a testament to their commitment to maintaining law and order within the city.
The collaborative efforts between the police and the community serve as a strong deterrent against criminal activities, and it is hoped that this recent success will contribute towards creating a safer environment for the residents of Lilongwe, allowing them to move about freely without fear of falling victim to such heinous crimes.
