Malawi: Police officers in Chitipa District have arrested 28-year-old James Zulu with regard to a robbery. The suspect was a resident of the Zulu village under Traditional Authority Zulu in Mchinji district.
The officials have shared that the suspect was responsible for stealing two solar street lights and poles. The robbery allegedly took place along Chitipa road on Tuesday and is subsequently under investigation.
The officials have shared that the robbery was reported to the police in the same day as the incident itself. Notably, a team of officers had been dispatched to the scene of crime to see the extent of the damage that has been caused.
The officials have shared that the robbery incident may have involved more than one accomplice with James Zulu. The exact number of people who are involved in thee incident has not been confirmed.
Chitipa Police Spokesperson, Sub-Inspector Gladwell Simwaka confirmed the incident with the media. The officer has revealed that they are investigating possible accomplices and motives behind the theft.
The official has also since reported that they have arrested the first suspect and he is in custody. The officials have shared that they would be presenting the suspect in front of the court for formally charging.
The suspect will be facing the charges for vandalism and theft, once investigations are complete. The confirmation came from the Police Spokesperson Simwaka who has also urged people to remain vigilant.
He has asserted that the protection of the public property is the responsibility of ethe people. They should also work with the administration to make sure vandalism does not take place.
As such, the police officer has asked the residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. This will help in preventing further thefts and ensure community safety.
The arrest of the suspect was made two days after stakeholders organised a sensitisation campaign at Group Village Head Katutula in Senior Chief Mwabulambya. The people in the district were enlightened about the evils of vandalising the streetlights.