Thyolo district registers high crime rate

Thyolo District Police Station has raised concern over rapid increase of crimes such as homicide, theft, defilement and suicide in the first half of 2023 saying this is sad development comparing with the year 2022 during the same period.

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Thyolo Police Officer-In-Charge, Isaac Norman told Thyolo Police Station Executive Committee and Thyolo Security Executive committee on Friday during the meeting that the trend need to be reversed.

He said from January to June 2023, the district has registered 20 cases of homicide which is higher comparing to 11 similar cases they registered in 2022 during the same period.

“The crime rates are accelerating because of inadequate logistical resources which is leading to low security provision to the community members.

“Availability of illegal markets is also a factor that is increasing crime rate because many people are stealing other people’s properties and sell them at black markets,” he said.

Norman also highlighted inadequacy of human resources as another challenge leading to low police patrols during the day and night.

In her remarks, District Commissioner for Thyolo, Rosemary Nawasha said registering a high crime rate is a threat to the community and it hinders development.

“The council will work hand in hand with the police and the entire community to provide security in the district,” she said.

Community Policing Forum and Thyolo Business Association  also attended the meeting

Currently Thyolo police station has over 70 officers.