By Sylvester Kumwenda

Dowa, May 10, Mana: Police in Dowa have arrested eight Malawian nationals and one Rwandese identified as Emmanuel Ahorukomeye for being suspected of participating in a series of criminal activities in the district.

Dowa Police Station Public Relations Officer, Alice Sitima said the arrests were a result of a planned operation conducted by the law enforcers.

"Among the suspects, three were charged with operating businesses that involved the purchase of farm produce without appropriate licenses.

"One person was detained for the illegal storage of liquid fuel and the remaining were arrested for various offenses, such as being found in possession of cannabis, distribution of counterfeit products, and use of uncertified scales," she said.

In addition to the arrests, Sitima said the operation led to the confiscation of 17 scales, which are suspected of not being certified by the Malawi Bureau of Standards.

The Suspects who are of the ages between 18 and 45 are currently awaiting to appear in court where they will answer the charges filed against them.

"We reaffirm our commitment to continue such operations to curb crime and ensure both safety of the district's residents and their properties," she said.

A resident of Dowa Boma, Mussa John hailed the Police for conducting the operation which has led to the arrest of the suspects.

He said the communities should help the Police to fish out more people involved in criminal acts in the district.