By Suleman Chitera, Lilongwe, Malawi
Residents of Area 25 in Lilongwe have taken matters into their own hands by launching coordinated night patrols in response to a disturbing increase in theft and murder cases reported in recent months.
The initiative, led by local leaders, has brought together motorcycle taxi operators—commonly known as kabaza—and community policing groups to strengthen neighbourhood surveillance and deter criminal activity, particularly during the night.
Chairperson of the Area 25 Neighbourhood Committee, Henry Madzi Mwayela, said the community is taking a united stand against crime.
“We have joined hands with the kabaza operators and the Kanazawa group to ensure that anyone moving suspiciously is reported or stopped,” he said.
Mwayela noted that many thieves have been using kabaza motorcycles under the cover of darkness, which makes it essential for riders to remain alert and involved in the patrols.
The patrols, now a nightly presence in key hotspots, were prompted by a string of violent incidents, including attacks on kabaza riders themselves. In response, community leaders are also planning to introduce a tailored security awareness and self-defence training programme for kabaza operators to enhance their safety and that of their passengers.
The move has been welcomed by motorcycle taxi operators, many of whom say that insecurity had begun to severely impact their operations.
“Now we can carry our customers without fear. Many riders had stopped working after 7:00 PM out of fear of attacks,” said Davide Kasanje, a kabaza operator in Area 25.
“To tell the truth, I am glad this is happening. Because of these killings, we have been living in fear and often refused to pick up passengers from distant places just to protect our lives.”
Area 25, one of Lilongwe’s most densely populated residential zones, has long faced intermittent security challenges. However, residents say the recent spike in violent crimes—particularly robberies and targeted killings—has prompted an urgent push for grassroots solutions.
Lilongwe Police authorities have acknowledged the importance of community participation in enhancing public safety and have been working closely with local patrol teams to provide support and guidance.
According to sources within Lilongwe Police Station, such community collaborations have already improved crime reporting and enabled quicker responses to incidents.
Security analysts say that community policing, when well-coordinated, can significantly supplement the limited police presence in Malawi’s rapidly growing urban areas.
With continued dialogue among community leaders, kabaza associations, and law enforcement agencies, Area 25 is setting an example in neighbourhood security—one built on cooperation, vigilance, and community empowerment.
