By Suleman Chitera
Human rights bodies have called for an urgent and thorough investigation following allegations that police officers assaulted a civilian at a roadblock in Kasumbu, Dedza District.
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The Independent Complaints Commission (ICC) and the Centre for Human Rights Education, Advice and Assistance (CHREAA) have both expressed concern over the incident, stressing the need for accountability and justice.
The alleged victim, identified as Usman Naya from Kanyenda Village under Traditional Authority Kasumbu, is reported to have been attacked on Thursday afternoon. According to his account, the incident occurred while he was cycling from his village to Dedza town when he encountered police officers manning a roadblock.
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Naya claims the officers attempted to extort money from him and became violent when he failed to comply, leaving him injured. The allegations have since raised serious questions about police conduct and the abuse of authority at roadblocks.
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Speaking on the matter, CHREAA Executive Director Victor Mhango emphasized the importance of ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done. He urged authorities to handle the case with transparency and professionalism, warning that failure to act decisively could erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.
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Mhango further advised the victim to formally lodge complaints with relevant oversight bodies, including the Independent Complaints Commission, the Malawi Police Service Professional Standards Unit, and the Legal Aid Bureau to ensure the matter is pursued through proper legal channels.
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Meanwhile, ICC spokesperson Happy Njalam’mano confirmed that the commission has taken interest in the case and is actively following up to establish the facts and ensure accountability where necessary.
“This is a matter we are treating with seriousness. We want to ensure that justice prevails and that any wrongdoing is addressed in accordance with the law,” said Njalam’mano.
As of now, Dedza Police have not issued any official statement regarding the allegations, a silence that has further heightened public concern.
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The incident comes amid growing scrutiny over the conduct of some law enforcement officers in Malawi, particularly in relation to alleged corruption and the use of excessive force. Rights advocates argue that cases like this highlight the urgent need for stronger oversight mechanisms and stricter enforcement of professional standards within the police service.
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If confirmed, the incident could add to mounting pressure on authorities to reform policing practices and reinforce accountability systems to protect citizens from abuse.
Investigations are expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident, as stakeholders continue to push for justice and transparency.
