By Evance Kapito

Copyright faceofmalawi

In a significant pre-election security operation, Malawian police have arrested four men for allegedly conspiring to burn down key markets in Lilongwe and block a major highway to disrupt next week’s general election.

The suspects were identified as Geofrey Kamanyengo, Fanwick Kerod, Upire Mkulumba, and Ladwell Ligomeka. They were arrested on Thursday in simultaneous operations in the cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre.

According to a statement signed by national police spokesperson Peter Kalaya, the group allegedly used a WhatsApp group to orchestrate their plans. The platform was reportedly used to raise funds, recruit new members, and coordinate the planned attacks.

“Their targets included the Mtandire, Mchesi, Chinsapo, and Mtsiriza markets in Lilongwe. They also planned to block the Chingeni Roadblock in Balaka district, a critical checkpoint on the M1 road linking the country’s south to the centre and north,” the statement read.

The police service asserts that it has gathered strong evidence against the suspects and that operations are ongoing to apprehend more accomplices linked to the plot. The four men currently in custody will be charged with conspiracy to commit a felony.

With the country set to go to the polls on September 16th, the police have moved to assure the public of their vigilance. The statement emphasized that security agencies are on high alert to prevent any acts of violence and to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the elections.

“The service is assuring all Malawians that it is on top of the situation and that adequate security measures are in place before, during, and after the elections,” Kalaya said.