Ministry of Defence, Home Affairs in Joint Investigations into Zomba Shooting

Ministry of Defence, Home Affairs in Joint Investigations into Zomba Shooting

The government Ministries of Defence and Home Affairs and Internal Security have assured Malawians that they are conducting jont investigations into the death of Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldier who was shot by three Malawi Police Service (MPS) officers who were on patrol duties.

The two ministries confirmed on the development in Lilongwe on Thursday evening when making their statement regarding the incident.

“The government Ministries of Defence and Home Affairs and Internal Security regret the shooting of  Malawi Defence Force soldier, Lance Corporal Prince Lameck in Zomba on 22^nd November 2014 at around 23:00 Hours by the three Malawi Police Service officers who were on patrol duties which resulted in his death. The two ministries are strongly condemning the act.” Said minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Hon. Paul Chibingu who was accompanied by Hon Jappie Mhango Deputy Minister of Defence

“As we are aware, both Malawi Defence Force (MDF) and Malawi Police Service (MPS) provide security in the country and it is very regrettable and unfortunate that a precious life was lost in the course of providing security.”

Honorable Chibingu said “…joint investigations by MDF and MPS are in progress. We also wish to inform the nation that the three MPS Officers involved are currently in custody awaiting findings of the joint investigations.”

The Inspector General of Police Paul Kanyama assured the nation of continued security and cordial working relationship that still exist between police and MDF. He also appealed to Police officers to be professional when carrying out duties and further advised security organizations not to take law into their own hands but to follow standard operating procedures.

“We are currently conducting meetings with all our junior members across the country to always respect one another and be disciplined so that we cool down the situation. Particularly we are asking them to avoid engaging themselves in wrangles as they could not take the nation forward but result into breakdown of security.” Said Kanyama and he added that the three officers will face the law.

According to Deputy Army Commander Lt General Griffin Phiri  said the MDF officers were met several occasions to be briefed on what is being done and the need to remain calm including respecting every institution of security.

“We are advising them to always emulate the good example set by their superiors as there is good working relationship between superiors on both sides. And we want to assure Malawians of security in this country because everything is in order” said Lt General Phiri