Police in Area 44 have engaged block leaders on the need for stronger cooperation between the police and communities to improve security in the area.
The meeting, held on September 5, 2026, at Area 44 Police Unit under Kawale Police Station, also discussed family disputes, community patrols and the protection of children.
Speaking during the meeting, Officer-in-Charge of Area 44 Police Unit, Assistant Superintendent Robert Mleule, urged block leaders to work closely with the police in fighting crime.
Mleule said community members should regard one another as partners in maintaining security, stressing that effective crime prevention requires cooperation between the police and the public. He further encouraged block leaders to establish neighbourhood watch teams in their respective areas.
Inspector Patrick Misinjo urged block leaders to submit the names and phone numbers of young people involved in community patrols. He also encouraged them to maintain police officers’ contact details for easy communication whenever security concerns arise.
Kawale Police Public Relations Officer, Sub-Inspector Precious Mabvuto Phiri, warned residents against taking the law into their own hands and cautioned them against violent acts. She also sensitised the community on sexual-related offences and urged residents to report such cases promptly.
Speaking on behalf of the block leaders, Sakonda Jussa commended the Area 44 Police Unit for organising the meeting, describing it as an important step towards strengthening cooperation between the police and the community.
Jussa also briefed the new OC on neighbourhood watch teams and appealed for support in providing equipment such as reflective vests and whistles.
In response, Mleule promised to address some of the challenges faced by neighbourhood watch teams by sourcing reflective vests, whistles and other security-related equipment.
The meeting provided an opportunity for community leaders to raise security concerns and strengthen collaboration with the police at grassroots level.
*Wezzie Yotamu
Assistant P.R.O Kawale Police Station