Zambia: Malembeka area in Luangwa township in Kitwe district has been adversely affected by a number of youth gangs in the area. The youngsters, who have become troublemakers threaten the peace and security.
The members of the community have come forward in large numbers to speak of this concern in breach of safety. However, many community members have chosen to remain anonymous, for their personal safety.
The community has spoken to the media regarding the issues. They have confirmed that teenagers are involved in disruptive and threatening activities.
The officials have shared that these children are often seen attacking residents, smoking in public places and more. This behaviour is making the members of the community fearful for their safety and peace.
The Malembeka area in Luangwa township residents claimed that this increase in gang disruptions is due to delayed opening of the community police station. The police station has been constructed very recently, however, it has not started proper functioning.
The residents believe that if Malembeka Police Post is opened soon, the situation may settle down.
The people are thus calling on the administration to open and operationalize the police station soon. Furthermore, they have also asked the police officers to increase security patrols.
The community needs more measures and programmes to address the root of these behaviors. Luangwa Ward Councilor, Mary Zimba has also commented on the dire situation that they are seeing in the area.
The ward councilor has assured the community of a quick redressal of the issue. She has taken the matter to high authorities, on whom she has called to support the community.
She is confident that the authorities will be able to deal with this crisis and the community will return to its pre-delinquency days. The teenagers who are involved in these gangs have been warned to mend their behavior.
Delinquency is one of the major causes of unrest in the Malembeka area in Luangwa township. The township and local authorities can help significantly to support this initiative.