Southern Province Police Chief Counsel Police officers

———————Southern Province Police Commissioner Mary Chikwanda has disclosed that the police recorded 421 road traffic accidents in the province this year.

Mrs. Chikwanda stated that 102 of these road accidents recorded were fatal in which 155 people lost their lives.

She also disclosed that 104 cases of defilement were also reported this year which resulted in 58 arrests and 12 convictions.

"The statistics are worrisome and more work needs to be done towards the acquisition of more traffic equipment to safe guard roads, pedestrians and motorists alike, “she said.

And Mrs. Chikwanda pointed out that defilement of girls under the age of 16 remains a matter of great concern to the police and the community.

She noted that the scourge has had negative effects on national development and calls for consented efforts from all stakeholders to address its devastating effects.

She said this last night during the Zambia Police Service Southern Division, Superior Police Officers Annual Ball held at Choma sports club in Choma.

Mrs. Chikwanda however noted that the province has this year experienced some decrease in serious and violent crimes which remain isolated and targeted at certain individuals for various motives.

She said a lot has been achieved in combating most of these crimes and treat those that have continued to recur as developmental areas where police need to focus attention.

Meanwhile, the Southern Province Police Commissioner has encouraged officers to stay focused, disciplined and professional.

Mrs. Chikwanda said officers should desist from engaging in criminal activities, politics and acts that might expose them to diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

She said no police officer will be protected if found wanting in the run-up to the January 20^th Presidential by-elections adding that during the period all officers are required to remain professional and neutral.

And Guest of Honour at the event High Court Judge in Charge Justice Ernest Mukulwamutiyo said despite challenges, police should not forget the basic requirement of upholding professionalism.

Justice Mukulwamutiyo stated that society expects that police will always operate within the confines of the law.

Justice Mukulwamutiyo said this in a speech read on his behalf by Chief Resident Magistrate Willy Sinyangwe.

Choma District Commissioner Bernadette Haamweemba and Southern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Douglas Ngimbu were in also in attendance.