Police in the Northern Region have arrested at least 25 people in connection with violence that occurred during Wednesday’s demonstrations.

However, Northern Region Police spokesperson, Peter Kalaya, refused to disclose the actual number of suspects who have been arrested.

“I can confirm that we have made some arrests and are monitoring the situation. We want people to be safe in the region.

Kalaya continued that they are still investigating all criminal activities that took place on Thursday.

“We are investigating all those criminal elements that came out during Wednesday’s demonstrations and today [Thursday],” Kalaya said.

He added said the police were working with stakeholders to ensure that there are no further riots and criminal acts in the region.

In Karonga District, the protesters blocked the road at the main roundabout where they were holding vigils before breaking and looting property at the Boma.

In Rumphi District, the protesters blocked Bolero-Rumphi Road.

Thursday, MDF soldiers dispersed people who had gathered at Katoto Ground in Mzuzu preparing to hold demonstrations, despite Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) announcing that it had shelved the protests scheduled for Thursday and Friday.

The protesters blocked Lilongwe- Mzuzu M1 Road at Katoto with stones and burnt branches of trees.

HRDC Northern Region Coordinator, Happy Mhango, distanced himself from Thursday’s demonstrations.