By Burnett Munthali

Kawale Police have come under public criticism for their continued practice of stopping vehicles in inappropriate and dangerous locations under the guise of enforcing traffic regulations.

On Wednesday, 14th May 2025, traffic police officers stationed themselves along the road stretching from ShareWorld Open University to Mchesi Bridge, where they impounded several vehicles, causing a long queue.

The scene drew concern from motorists and pedestrians alike, as the impounding operation created a traffic bottleneck on one of the city’s busiest road segments.

The decision to stop vehicles at or near a bridge raised serious safety concerns, particularly regarding the risk of accidents and structural strain on the bridge itself.

Bridges are sensitive zones that require clear passage and minimal congestion due to their design limitations and vulnerability to pressure from stationary vehicles.

Beyond the physical danger, the roadblock also caused major inconvenience to road users, many of whom were forced to wait for extended periods in the heat with no clear explanation for the operation.

Experts in traffic management have emphasized that such roadblocks should be conducted in safe and designated areas that allow for proper vehicle checks without endangering lives or disrupting flow.

According to the Malawi Police Act and relevant traffic laws, police officers are allowed to conduct roadblocks and enforce traffic regulations as part of their duty to promote road safety and law compliance.

However, the law also mandates that these operations be carried out in a manner that does not pose unnecessary risks or violate the rights of motorists.

The mounting criticism against the Kawale Police reflects a broader concern over law enforcement practices that prioritize revenue collection or personal gain over public safety and proper procedure.

As public pressure builds, it remains to be seen whether authorities will review and reform how and where roadblocks are conducted to align with legal standards and ensure the safety of all road users.