By Burnett Munthali
Police in the Northern Region have confirmed the arrest of Vincent Maganga, 30, for allegedly scanning voter registration certificates at Mlowe MEC registration centre in Rumphi District.
According to Northern Region Police Spokesperson Maurice Chapola, the arrest followed a report from concerned community members who suspected Maganga of engaging in suspicious activities near the registration centre.
“Police officers at the registration centre received information that Maganga was scanning voter registration certificates close to the centre. When they arrived at the scene, they found that he had already scanned ten certificates,” Chapola revealed.
Maganga has since been charged with conducting in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace.
The suspect hails from Yahaya Village, Traditional Authority Kamenyagwaza, in Dedza District.
The arrest raises questions about the potential misuse of voter registration certificates and highlights the importance of safeguarding the electoral process. Scanning such sensitive documents near registration centres could undermine trust in the integrity of elections.
Police and MEC officials have not yet disclosed the possible motive behind Maganga’s actions. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether he was acting independently or as part of a larger scheme.
The incident underscores the role of local communities in protecting the electoral process. Chapola commended the community members who reported the suspicious activity, urging others to remain vigilant and report any actions that may compromise the credibility of the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, authorities have assured the public that measures are being put in place to enhance security at all registration centres.
As the case unfolds, the nation will be watching closely to see what further details emerge about Maganga’s actions and their implications for the country’s electoral process.