45 Arrested After Violent Mangochi Protest
The leadership of Malawi First has not yet commented.
MANGOCHI, Malawi - Mangochi police have arrested 45 people on suspicion of committing various offences during and after a three-hour demonstration organized by Bon Kalindo of 'Malawi First' on Thursday in the district, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
Police spokesperson Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi said Friday that the procession began at Mpondasi Trading Centre and went to the District Commissioner's Office, where a petition was presented.
Daudi said some people went on a rampage during and after the demonstration, throwing stones at police officers and vehicles and setting fire to signposts and kiosks belonging to TNM and Airtel along the road.
After submitting the petition, instead of returning home peacefully, the rioters invaded the District Education Office, where they began throwing stones and damaging 18 window panes, Daudi said.
They also smashed 10 vehicles parked within the premises belonging to government agencies and individuals.
The extent of damage to the property has not yet been assessed.
Police managed to swiftly arrest 45 people. They have been charged with malicious damage and inciting violence and will appear in court soon, Daudi said.
“We will track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” Daudi said.
Investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest more suspects.
The leadership of Malawi First has not yet commented.