Police commissioner highlights distrust in high-density areas

By Jones Gadama

Commissioner of Police for the South East region, Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira, has revealed that people living in high-density areas have little trust in the police compared to those residing in affluent areas. Dr. Kayira made this observation in an interview with Zodiak Online after being awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration during the University of Malawi (UNIMA) graduation ceremony in Zomba.

According to Dr. Kayira, the public distrust stems from the police’s tendency to prioritize services for wealthy individuals while neglecting the poor. He noted that the police tend to respond more quickly to calls from affluent areas than to those from high-density areas, resulting in dissatisfaction with police work among residents in these areas.

Dr. Kayira’s observation is based on his PhD research, which focused on issues of community policing.

His study likely highlighted the importance of building trust between the police and the community, particularly in high-density areas where policing needs are often more pressing.

The police commissioner’s call for a change in mindset, behavior, and attitude among police officers and community police groups is a crucial step towards restoring public trust.

By acknowledging the existing disparities in police services, Dr. Kayira is paving the way for reforms that can help bridge the gap between the police and the community.

Dr. Kayira’s research and observations underscore the need for community policing strategies that prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.

By adopting a more inclusive and responsive approach to policing, the Malawi Police Service can work towards building trust and confidence among the public, particularly in high-density areas.

The implications of Dr. Kayira’s findings are significant, as they highlight the need for police reform and community engagement. By addressing the root causes of public distrust, the police can improve their relationships with the community and provide more effective services to all citizens.

Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira’s observation on the distrust of police in high-density areas is a call to action for the Malawi Police Service.

His research and recommendations provide a valuable framework for reform and community engagement, which can help restore public trust and improve policing services in the country.

As the police service moves forward, it is essential that they prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status, and work towards building a more inclusive and responsive policing system.