As cases of theft are increasing in Lilongwe City, police have arrested 98 people during a sweeping exercise it conducted in the city Thursday night.

Deputy Public Relations Officer for Lilongwe Police Station, Sergeant Foster Benjamin, said the exercise was part of activities of the Lilongwe Urban Vendors Community Policing Panel which works to ensure that the city is a safe place.

Benjamin said of the 98 arrested, 20 are street kids who were terrifying people at Lilongwe Bridge, Wulian Shopping Complex and Bwaila Hospital.

“The suspects are yet to appear before court and they will answer charges ranging from theft, idle and disorderly, failing to wear face masks, and selling liquor beyond permitted hours,” said Benjamin.

The exercise was carried out in Malangalanga, Bwalo la Njovu, Devil Street, Falls, Lilongwe Flea Market, Lizulu and some parts of Area 1.