By Burnett Munthali
Kasungu Police Station has recorded an increase in crime, with 615 cases reported this year compared to 412 during the same period last year.
Police Station Officer Nolliettie Chihana Chimala disclosed the figures during a Station Executive Committee (SEC) meeting held to review the station’s performance.
Chimala attributed the rise in crime partly to operational challenges, particularly inadequate transport.
She said the station currently has only one operational vehicle out of its three vehicles, a situation that is affecting police response and other operational activities.
The officer noted that delayed response times have made it difficult for officers to reach scenes quickly and to conduct patrols in rural areas of the district.
She added that the transport deficit has also strained investigations, suspect transfers, and community policing engagements that are critical to preventing crime.
Meanwhile, Senior Chief Kaomba pledged to mobilise support from local businesses and the District Council to improve police operations and strengthen crime prevention efforts.
The traditional leader said community safety requires collective action and that chiefs, the private sector, and government must work together to equip police with necessary resources.
Both police and community leaders at the meeting agreed that addressing logistical gaps will be key to reversing the upward trend in reported cases before the end of the year.
