Minister demands extreme tight security at National Stadium

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Paul Chibingu has said he was “deeply concerned” with the increased crimes of theft of construction materials by workers at the construction site of National Stadium in Lilongwe.

He said government was not happy with the “appaling” theft taking place at the construction area which is feared to delay completion of the facility.

Chibingu was speaking in Lilongwe on Friday after a consultative meeting between the construction company, the Police and the Ministry.

The Minister speaking in presence of the Inspector General of Police Loti Dzonzi demanded “answers to very difficult questions.”

He disclosed that the consultative meeting resolved to incorporate locals in safeguarding and monitoring every single activity taking place at the site.

Chibingu further asked the police to search and inspect every individual entering and leaving the place without looking at the position or nationality one is coming from.

“I have noted that the Chinese nationals were given prime treatment forgetting that they are humans who could also be involved in theft acts. Therefore from today I have directed that despite whatsoever, everyone must be searched before and after entering this place,” Chibingu explained.

Among some of the things being stolen includes, steel scuffed pipes, steel tarns elements meant for roofing, electric cables and motors.
Inspector General of Police, Loti Dzonzi said the police were ready to provide tight security to reduce the rampant cases of theft at the construction area.

Dzonzi, however, boamed lack of cordial working relationship between the Malawi Police and Chinese Security Team which he said could be fueling the malpractice.

“Most of the theft taking place here is done by the employees of course with help of the outsiders. As Malawi police we are committed to boost security at the facility.

“One thing also that should be considered is shelter for police officers in all the positioned places and let us improve the communication system,” the Police boss said.

Dzonzi also proposed for finger printing for all those working at the stadium as one way of combating theft.

Senior Supritendant Louis Chigadula promised that the issues of theft will now be the water under the bridge since the Police will put in the strong measures of curbing crime occurrence  at the site.

Cheng Jiewu, Chinese Project Coordinator said theft of construction materials is becoming worrisome and if not tacked would affect the construction period.

Malawi will for the first time have a magnificent national stadium which will accommodate 41,000 spectators. It is expected that by December next year (2015), the stadium shall be ready for use.

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