By Aubrey Kashoni

Thyolo, August 4, Mana: Thyolo Police Station has engaged faith-based leaders as one way of reinforcing unity and peace among communities, a development they said can help to reverse the 48 percent high crime rate in the district.

Speaking on Friday during an interface meeting with religious leaders in the district, Officer In-charge for Thyolo Police Isaac Norman said church leaders have a crucial role in disseminating reconciliation messages to its members and the community at large.

"Some of the criminals that are committing series of offences stay close to us and attend our churches as our members. As leaders let us not forget our role of offering counseling messages to our people on the dangers of committing crimes. Together we can reduce cases of suicide, defilement, murder, and mob justice that are very high in Thyolo,” he said.

Norman said some cases of defilement and suicide happen because of spiritual forces hence prayer is the only key to reduce such incidents.

On his part, Thyolo District Section Interfaith Chairperson Reverend Lloyd Somela said the meeting with the law enforcers will help to enhance coordination which can help to combat crime in the district.

Thyolo Police Station started sensitization campaign last week aimed at creating awareness among communities in the district on the negative impacts of committing crimes amid high crime rate.