Malawians fleeing violence in South Africa sparked chaos at a reception centre in Mwanza on Thursday over delayed transport allowances, forcing the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) to strengthen security.
The unrest broke out at the Joyce Chitsulo Community Centre after frustrated returnees accused DoDMA officials of taking too long to release transport money for their journeys back to their home districts.
The angry crowd damaged property belonging to the Malawi Red Cross Society during the disturbance.
One Red Cross volunteer was injured in the leg after he was allegedly assaulted by some of the returnees.
One of the returnees, Sarrif Jafali, said their frustration stemmed from the long wait for transport assistance.
“We have stayed here for a long time. All we want is the transport money so we can return to our homes,” said Jafali.
In response, DoDMA Commissioner General Wilson Moleni said the department has deployed additional police officers to reinforce security at the reception centre.
Moleni described the violence as regrettable and appealed to the returnees to remain calm as officials continue processing transport payments.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of Red Cross volunteers in Mwanza, Leonard Thangata, condemned the attack, urging the returnees to resolve their concerns peacefully instead of resorting to violence.
He also called on DoDMA to ensure similar incidents do not happen again as the country continues receiving citizens fleeing violence and unrest in South Africa.
