Mutharika says insecurity hurting Malawi economy

President Peter Mutharika has has cried out over the hurting effects of  insecurity on the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the  commemoration of National Police Day, retaliated that his administration was aware of the security lapse, but was steadily addressing the matter.

“The voice of Malawians about issues of safety and security is very clear. So too is my government’s commitment to issues of security,” said Mutharika.

The President said he was “very concerned” with the state of security in the country, saying  it is having “a negative impact on the economic development .”

He assured that his  government will do all it can  to ascertain that all residents of Malawi are secure everywhere they are.

“I would like to assure the Malawi nation that the police will make sure that law and order is  maintained in this country,” said Mutharika.

Mutharika said the police “shoulder the responsibility  of making sure that our chidren should live their  lives without fear; fear of being attacked, molested or defiled. Our women should be free to walk anytime, any place without the fear of any violation or abuse.”

The President said he was also concerned with the safety and security of investors and their investments  “whether it is a Malawian investor or foreign, their investment must be safe.”

Mutharika said his  government had ordered 50 vehicles to equip the police to effectively patrol the cities and other areas.

“The procurement of 50 vehicles and some public order  equipment is just the begining of  a long journey that my government  will undertake to revitalize the security sector in this country.

“ I am aware of a wide range of challenges that are affecting your ability to deliver service to our people such as poor housing and office accommodation, lack of reliable transport, inadequate uniforms, lack of modern telecommunication equipment and forensic support to policing amongst others,” he said.

Reports indicate that there has been a significant rise in crime, particularly in urban areas, since the DPP government came to power in May 2014.

Some robberies have even been taking place during day time, thereby creating fear and panic among Malawians.

Mutharika is on record saying he has intelligence information about the existence of an underground gang terrorising the country in an attempt to destabilise his government.