The Central East African Railway (CEAR) has donated security torches to community-based policing forums in Machinga to support night patrols and bolster security along the railway line from Machinga to the Nayuchi border area.
The handover took place at various locations, including Mbanila, Namanja, Chinyasa, Chipakwe, and Ntalala Trading Centers within Traditional Authority Mchinguza and Namizinga.
CEAR Security Analyst Lawrence Phiri stated that the donation aims to enhance security for trains transporting goods. He praised the community policing forums in Mchinguza and Namizinga for their role in safeguarding CEAR equipment and trains carrying wheat, fuel, and other goods. Phiri also mentioned that CEAR has empowered the forums to report and question any train stopping at unauthorized locations to prevent theft of locomotive fuel and other goods.
Phiri commended the Machinga Police for their partnership with CEAR, noting that security improvements along the Liwonde to Nayuchi section have significantly reduced theft incidents. He added that goods transported by train are now safer due to enhanced security measures.
Community Policing Coordinator for the Eastern Region, Superintendent Sazalabika Zimba, praised CEAR for the torch donation and urged people to avoid unauthorized activities along the railway line, citing safety concerns. Zimba reported seven deaths from train accidents between Mbanila and Nayuchi border from January to August.
Mchinguza Community Policing Forum Chairperson White Chilolo expressed gratitude for the torches, stating that they will greatly aid members in conducting effective night patrols along the railway line.
