Karonga Police Station has received a Marine 21 patrol boat from Marine Police Headquarters, a development expected to significantly strengthen security operations on Lake Malawi.
Karonga Police Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent Kelvin Mulezo, said the new vessel will enhance routine lake patrols and search-and-rescue operations, while also helping to curb irregular migration, human trafficking, smuggling and other forms of transnational crime.
Mulezo said the arrival of the patrol boat is timely, noting that activity on the lake typically increases during the festive season as more people travel, fish and engage in cross-border trade.
“This boat will greatly improve our visibility and response capacity on the lake. It will also help prevent criminal activities that take advantage of reduced patrols, especially during peak periods,” he said.
The development follows the reintroduction of Marine Police services in Karonga District earlier this year after years of limited marine operations along the northern stretch of Lake Malawi.
Commenting on the development, security expert Sheriff Kayisi described the deployment of the patrol boat as a major boost to lake security, noting that Lake Malawi is both strategic and vulnerable.
“Strengthening marine patrols is critical because the lake is often used for illegal activities that are difficult to monitor from land. A visible and well-equipped marine police presence acts as a deterrent to criminals and enhances public safety,” Kayisi said.
He added that improved patrols will also promote cooperation between Malawi and neighbouring countries in addressing cross-border crimes on the lake.
Lake Malawi is shared by Malawi, Tanzania and Mozambique, making effective marine policing vital for national security and the protection of lives and livelihoods that depend on the lake.
