Police in Machinga District have advised people with albinism to avoid walking at night and to refrain from sleeping alone in their houses to strengthen their security.
The Community Policing Coordinator for Machinga Police Station, Sub Inspector Masautso Katemera, made these remarks during a meeting with persons with albinism from Paramount Chief Kawinga in the district.
Sub Inspector Katemera said the purpose of the meeting was to collect data on the number of persons with albinism living in the area under Paramount Chief Kawinga, and also to encourage them on matters concerning their safety.
He urged the community not to let children with albinism travel long distances alone, such as going to school or church, but to accompany them to protect them from potential perpetrators.
During the meeting, police also distributed security gadgets to persons with albinism as a way of enhancing their safety.
“We are asking you to report any suspicious people in your area to your village chiefs or community policing committee. Also, when leaving your home, make sure to leave your children with people you trust, not just anyone,” he said.
On his part, Group Village Headman Mizinga, who represented Paramount Chief Kawinga, said traditional leaders would take the lead in ensuring the security of persons with albinism in the area and make sure that children with albinism are attending school.
He also thanked the Machinga Police for showing interest in protecting people with albinism.
In his remarks, Station Executive Chairperson (SEC) for Machinga District, Richard Kalasa also advised the people to associate only with those they know well and to avoid excessive alcohol consumption to protect themselves from criminals.
