By Zenak Matekenya

Dedza, September 19, Mana: Dedza Station Executive Committee (SEC) Chairperson Peter Msukwa has hailed Dedza Police for reducing crime rates by 12 percent in 2024 saying its sharing boundaries with Mozambique comes with complications of cross-border crimes.

He said this on Wednesday following a SEC meeting which brought together police officers, community policing members as well as traditional and faith leaders to intensify crime prevention measures in the district.

Msukwa observed attributes such as strategic planning, coordination and community engagement among those that have helped the police to counter theft, child trafficking and other crimes.

"A bigger portion of the district shares boundaries with Mozambique. Police deal with crimes that can be influenced and delicate because of these boundaries. News of reduced crime is therefore worth celebrating,” he said.

Officer-In-Charge for Dedza Police Station Dr. Gift Chiundira said effective crime prevention, trust and public safety are possible because of a good working relationship between police and communities.

He hailed Senior Chief Chilikumwedo who mobilized money through a football bonanza in consultation with the District Commissioner’s office to buy two motorbikes to assist mobility in crime prevention.

In his remarks, Senior Chief Chilikumwendo said leaders have a task to identify problems faced by communities and find solutions.

Meanwhile, people in the district have commended increased police visibility at the Boma and enforcement of the speed limit along the M1 Road using speed traps.

SEC is composed of district police station officer in charge, chiefs, faith leaders and local people to ensure quality provision of security in a district.