By Dhumisan Khumalo

Mzuzu, May 28, Mana: 17 individuals, including three women have been arrested following violent incidents that occurred during demonstrations in Mzuzu on Tuesday.

According to Northern Region Police Public Relations Officer, Maurice Chapola, the arrests were made after a group of individuals broke away from the main body of peaceful protestors shortly after delivery of a petition to the office of the District Commissioner.

“After detaching themselves from the main group, the suspects began stoning motorists, damaging police and civilian vehicles, and erecting roadblocks where they demanded money from passersby,” said Chapola.

He added that all 17 suspects were apprehended on the spot by law enforcement officers and are currently in police custody.

The suspects are expected to appear in court by the end of the day to face several charges, including vandalism, unlawful gathering, malicious damage to property, and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.

Police urges the community to maintain law and order, advising the public to exercise their right to protest in a peaceful and lawful manner.