Criminal Investigation Department Officers have been urged to utilize their roles in curbing wildlife and environmental crimes and raise awareness among the public about the importance of preserving natural vegetation.
The sentiments were made on March 6, 2024 by Miss Jessie Nyirongo, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Deputy Director of Criminal Investigation Department during a two day workshop at Police Cottage in Mangochi.
Speaking to 50 detectives drawn from various police formations, Nyirongo stressed the need of following laws to address environmental crimes effectively. She also advised the participants to take the workshop seriously and utilize their profession in devising strategies to overcome challenges they face in their roles.
Nyirongo also commended Lilongwe Wildlife Trust for their tremendous support in grooming the detectives on the new regulatory framework in safeguarding natural resources.
In his remarks Daniel Kabichi, Head of Law enforcement in Forest Department expressed gratitude for the positive collaboration between the two organizations. He alluded that forest department has just amended its Act and this workshop is a good platform to share what is needed in the Investigations of such crimes hence incorporated police detectives.
Kabichi noted improvements in people’s understanding of the need to protect natural resources and address encroachment, emphasizing the ongoing necessity for increased awareness.
Superintendent Wellington Chimdzakazi, head of the Wildlife and Environmental Crimes Investigation Unit based at the National Police Headquarters, commended MPS for their accomplishments and successful massive progress in breaking the chains saying a number of people who were arrested in the environmental crimes are serving jail terms.
However, he encouraged fellow detectives to understand the current trend of the malpractice and the need to prevent criminal violations by informing and educating the citizenry on wildlife and environmental regulations.
Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Public Relations Officer
Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999-706-525
Email:amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website:www.police.gov.mw